Penal Code 466 — possession of burglary tools — is frequently charged alongside trespass offenses in the West Hollywood area. This guide explains what the law actually requires, how bail is calculated for these charges, what happens at the West Hollywood Sheriff Station after an arrest, and what the court process looks like.
What Is PC 466 — Possession of Burglary Tools?
California Penal Code 466 makes it a crime to possess tools with the intent to break into or enter a building to commit a crime. The key element is intent — simply owning a screwdriver isn’t a crime, but carrying lockpicks, slim jims, or pry bars near a building with no legitimate reason can be.
What Qualifies as a “Burglary Tool” Under PC 466?
The statute lists specific items including: picklock, crow bar, key bit, tension wrench, lock pick, drill bit, sliding bar, and “any instrument or tool with intent feloniously to break or enter.” Courts have applied this broadly to everyday tools when circumstantial evidence suggests criminal intent.
Is PC 466 a Misdemeanor or Felony?
PC 466 alone is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in county jail and a $1,000 fine. Bail is typically $5,000–$10,000. However, when charged alongside PC 459 (burglary) or PC 602 (trespass) with aggravating factors, the overall bail can increase substantially because the combined charges paint a picture of criminal intent.
West Hollywood Sheriff Station — Arrest Facts
- Address: 780 N San Vicente Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
- Phone: (310) 855-8850
- Inmate Lookup: LASD Inmate Information Center
- Average Booking Time: 4–6 hours
- Arraignment Courthouse: Los Angeles Superior Court — Airport/West District or Hollywood Courthouse depending on charges
West Hollywood is an unincorporated area of LA County, so law enforcement is provided by the LA County Sheriff’s Department through the West Hollywood Station. LASD booking procedures apply, and inmate records are searchable through the LASD system.
How Trespass + Burglary Tools Charges Combine
PC 602 (trespass) is typically a misdemeanor. PC 466 (possession of burglary tools) is also a misdemeanor. But when both are charged together, prosecutors use each charge to prove intent on the other — the trespass supports intent for the tools, and the tools support a commercial burglary inference. This matters for bail because:
- The DA may file an attempted burglary charge (PC 664/459) instead, which is a felony with $20,000+ bail
- Even if filed as misdemeanors, a judge may set higher bail citing public safety concerns
- Prior similar offenses significantly increase bail and the likelihood of felony filing
Bail Amounts for These Charges
| Charge | Code | Bail | Bond Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of burglary tools | PC 466 | $5,000–$10,000 | $500–$1,000 |
| Trespass | PC 602 | $1,000–$5,000 | $100–$500 |
| Attempted burglary | PC 664/459 | $20,000 | $2,000 |
| Residential burglary (1st degree) | PC 459 | $50,000 | $5,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can PC 466 charges be dismissed?
Yes. Because intent is the key element, defense attorneys often challenge PC 466 charges by arguing the tools had a legitimate purpose (trade work, locksmith equipment, etc.). First-time offenders frequently receive diversion or plea agreements that avoid a conviction.
How long does someone stay at West Hollywood Sheriff Station before being transferred?
For misdemeanor charges with bail set, most defendants are released within 6–12 hours. For felony charges or those who can’t post bail, transfer to county jail typically happens within 24–48 hours.
Does a PC 466 conviction affect employment?
A misdemeanor conviction appears on a background check and can affect employment in security, property management, and government jobs. Diversion or expungement (PC 1203.4) can seal the record in many cases.
If your loved one was booked at West Hollywood Sheriff Station and bail has been set, our West Hollywood bail bond service can post bond the same day — call (818) 244-3389.