Band must pay nearly $40,000 in Restitution after Felony Sentencing

Three individuals who made up an Orange County band were recently ordered to pay $39,350.39 in restitution for blocking a freeway and causing severe traffic jams. The self-described "hardcore hip hop band" had created huge traffic jams in both directions on the 101 freeway in an October 2010 incident. The band members reportedly crossed three lanes of southbound traffic with a large commercial truck and came to a stop near the Sunset exit in Hollywood on a busy morning. They then climbed on top of the truck, which had their band name painted on the sides, and began playing a song entitled "Traffic Jam 101".

The driver of the vehicle took the keys and fled the scene. Firefighters put a ladder up to the truck and the three individuals finally came down. The truck had to be towed. They were arrested and booked on charges of felony conspiracy and misdemeanor counts for other offenses. The three men, all in their early 30s, plead no contest to the charges against them and were sentenced to five weeks community service and three years of probation in October 2010. They were in court again recently for their restitution hearing. The judge ordered them to pay over $39,000 to the California Department of Transportation. Don't hesitate to get the help of a criminal defense attorney if you have been charged with a felony or misdemeanor offense.

A conviction for a felony offense can have varying penalties depending on the exact nature and circumstances of the alleged crime. Offenses involving drugs, violence, weapons, assault, battery or otherwise causing harm to others will usually be sentenced more harshly than non-violent crimes. Nonetheless, a felony conviction can mean prison time of a year or more, thousands in fines, community service, probation and more. A felony conviction on your record can also have negative impacts on your future when it comes to employment opportunities, student loans and other loans.

Let a criminal defense lawyer fight for you!

A tough defender with The Law Offices of Barney B. Gibbs understands what it takes to get the best outcome possible in a criminal case. Your rights and your freedom may be on the line so it is crucial that you have an aggressive representative on your side that will fight for you. Contact the firm now to schedule a free initial consultation.