‘It’s a felony?’ How California’s Proposition 36 Changed Shoplifting for Two Thieves [Video]

What’s New

The Seal Beach Police Department in California released video footage of how the newly passed Proposition 36 changed shoplifting for two alleged thieves accused of stealing hundreds of dollars worth of merchandise.

Why It Matters

The incident underscores how California police may tackle shoplifting moving forward as the state aims to get ahold of the issue to increase confidence in public safety and bring back businesses to cities like San Francisco, where critics say retail crime has contributed to an exodus of shops. It marks a rightward shift among California voters on crime.

Crime remains a top issue for voters across the country, and Democrats saw losses in cities like Los Angeles or New York City this year, as critics view frustration over how city leaders and prosecutors handle crime as playing a role in Republicans‘ gains in these traditionally Democratic areas.

What is Prop 36 in California?

California voters passed Proposition 36, …