Alleged shoplifters SHOCKED by stricter California laws: You know if you’re in California, we have reported on countless cases of brazen theft. Shoplifter with no significant cards with his. Last month California voters overwhelmingly approved a new law, Prop 36, it rolls back criminal justice reform policies that could critics say led to overwhelming crime. Police and prosecutors have more leeway to charge crimes as felonies.
Three women walk into an Alto Booties store casually stealing whatever they want, not even trying to conceal stolen goods. The women are surprised when police run up on them and arrest the thieves.
The three women were booked into an Orange County jail on charges of grand theft, conspiracy to commit a crime, and resisting arrest.
Yesterday in Bakersfield, California, Dustin Towery pleaded not guilty to stealing two scooters from a Target store. Before Prop 36, he could only be charged with a misdemeanor but the D.A. can and did charge this man with a felony in part because he had six prior convictions for stealing and history of skipping out on court appearances.
“Had it been before the passage of Prop 36 he would have been given if caught which he resisted arrest if coffee would have been given a citation and a promise to appear. Now because of the voters of this man is in custody and can’t steal again at least for a while while.”
Because of that man’s criminal past the judge ordered him held in jail without bail. Something that would not have been possible just a few weeks ago here in California.
Source: raialkhalij + aljazeera