Six months ago, a Stockton store employee was assaulted by a group of shoplifting suspects after confronting them in the parking lot. This incident was just another example of an epidemic problem impacting California, as shoplifting increased by more than 30 percent.
To address this growing problem, the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce signed a memorandum of understanding with the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office, a first of its kind between the Chamber and DA. And through a partnership with the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors all three entities joined forces to initiate the Stockton Takes Action Against Retail Theft (STAART) program. STAART includes a public awareness campaign featuring billboards with the message “If you steal in San Joaquin County, we prosecute.” These billboards serve as a powerful symbol of our community’s commitment to protecting local businesses and neighborhoods from the scourge of retail crime.
In addition, grant funds are being utilized to help small businesses acquire camera systems for their stores so that video is available for law enforcement investigations should a crime occur. The Chamber developed an app to enable store owners to directly upload videos and accompanying information to the District Attorney’s office, in hopes of increasing prosecutions.
Finally, the District Attorney has been successfully working with the courts to bundle what would be misdemeanors together from various incidents that they can tie to a suspect in order to secure felony convictions that have resulted in jail time.
In other words, Stockton and San Joaquin County are stepping up and allocating resources to address retail theft. Now, we need the state to provide similar efforts, starting by changing the laws. Currently, someone could shoplift for the first time or the one hundredth time and the potential penalty is the same. In most cases, it is a simple citation and release.
However, in November, Californians will have the opportunity to vote on Proposition 36, the Homeless, Drug Addiction, and Retail Theft initiative which offers a sensible approach by addressing some of the unintended consequences of Proposition 47, particularly regarding repeat retail theft. It holds repeat offenders accountable, potentially leading to jail time for shoplifters with multiple convictions. Most importantly, the initiative encourages thieves to participate in rehabilitation programs as an alternative to incarceration, while also addressing homelessness and issues related to fentanyl abuse.
By addressing issues related to homelessness and drug addiction, Proposition 36 offers a comprehensive approach to tackling the root causes of crime while also protecting businesses and communities.
Stockton is doing its part to address retail theft. However, without changes to state law, thieves are not held accountable. That’s why we need Proposition 36.
The epidemic of retail theft in California shows no signs of slowing down, but with collaborative efforts such as STAART and the potential passing of Proposition 36, there is hope for a safer and more secure environment for businesses and communities. It is crucial that the state takes action to address these issues and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. By voting in favor of Proposition 36, Californians can help combat the scourge of retail theft and work towards a safer future for all.
