Police video shows a California shoplifting suspect stunned to learn he could face felony charges under a new law cracking down on low-level theft.
Seal Beach Police Department in Orange County Montage released Security, dashboard and body camera videos show the three women lifting more than $600 worth of merchandise from Ulta Beauty before officers grabbed them, slapped them with cuffs and forced them into a patrol car. It showed how it was done.
When one suspect asked if he could be charged with a felony, his co-defendant delivered grim news. Theft is a serious crime. ”
“This is Orange County, b—h. They don't play,” the suspected thief lamented.
The new law in question is Proposition 36. A ballot initiative that took effect Wednesday repeals crime mitigation policies that limit law enforcement's ability to crack down on minor crimes such as shoplifting.
Under one law passed in 2014, thieves could only be charged with a misdemeanor if the stolen items were worth less than $950.
But the law coincided with a spike in retail theft, sparking an outcry from both the public and businesses, and ultimately forcing politicians to reverse course.
Almost 70% of voters voted in favor of Proposition 36.
“Here in Seal Beach, we have never believed in citation-and-release programs, but this new proposal is an example of organized retail theft,” Seal Beach police said in the caption of a video set to Nancy Sinatra's “These Boots.” It only strengthens our efforts to combat this.” Made for walkin'. ”
“Everyone, please don't steal stickers,” he added.
