Former Westminster Sergeant Guilty Of Domestic Violence

William Arganda, former Westminster police sergeant in Orange County, California, an 18 year veteran with the force, was sentenced to three years informal probation, 100 hours community service and five days of service at the California Department of Transportation. Arganda pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of domestic violence and unlawful disclosure of DMV records. He was accused of using the CLETS system (which connects to DMV, state and federal law-enforcement databases) for personal rather than professional reasons. Arganda was said to have used the databases to meet women, look up names and license plates, and keep an eye on his ex-wife and ex-girlfriends. He was eventually fired from the department for doing so. Domestic Violence can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor under Penal Code Sections 273.5 and 243(e) (1);as misdemeanors both charges carry a maximum punishment of 1 year in the county jail. As felonies both charges carry a maximum of 3 years in state prison. In addition, if a Defendant is found guilty of these charges or pleads guilty he/she must complete a 52-week batterer's course, 8 hours of community service and pay about $800.00 in fines, fees and "donations". A skillful attorney can help you avoid a conviction under this code section and/or custody time depending on your individual facts.

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