A Brooklyn lawmaker, identified as a socialist, recently made headlines by suggesting that individuals should have the right to shoplift essential items like toothpaste and soap without facing arrest. State Rep. Emily Gallagher argued that these items are necessary for survival, referring to them as products for which people have a “biological need.”
During a rally this week, she proposed that legalizing theft of such necessities could address issues of poverty. Gallagher expressed her views outside the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse, where she was joined by left-leaning advocates and a group called New York City Court Watch. This group reported observing a significant number of misdemeanors during a recent monitoring of court arraignments.
“Most of the crimes we observed were committed by those in financial distress. If someone is stealing toothpaste or soap, they clearly need these items,” Gallagher commented, representing several progressive neighborhoods in northern Brooklyn.
She raised concerns about prioritizing the protection of large corporations, like CVS and Walgreens, over individuals struggling to meet their basic needs. Gallagher lamented the wealth inequality in the city, implying that punishing individuals for meeting their biological needs highlights systemic issues.
Although she advocates for alternative measures like “treatment, not jail,” her comments overlooked the fact that first-time shoplifters typically do not receive jail sentences. Moreover, the growing pressure from politicians to relax enforcement has led many stores to ramp up security measures, like locking up merchandise in plastic containers.
At the rally, Gallagher and her colleagues urged Mayor Zoran Mamdani to uphold his campaign promise to discontinue “broken windows enforcement,” which targets minor offenses, including graffiti and fare evasion.
However, reactions from shoppers in the Bronx were largely critical of Gallagher’s stance. Customers at the Food Universal supermarket expressed their disbelief at the notion of legitimizing theft, voicing concerns that such policies would ultimately hurt law-abiding shoppers.
“It’s absurd to believe there’s no consequence for stealing. Theft is still a crime,” stated Reverend Susan Webb, 68. She noted the potential repercussions of these policies on local businesses, fearing they might close, forcing residents to travel further for essentials.
Some community members echoed this sentiment, arguing that lax policies on shoplifting would only embolden offenders. An academic advisor, Janet Mack, voiced her frustration with such “ridiculous” policies, suggesting they undermine efforts to genuinely help those in need.
Others, including a supermarket manager, pointed out the practical challenges faced by retailers in an environment where theft might go unpunished. With high costs and low profit margins, the prospect of persistent theft could threaten the viability of local businesses.
Gallagher has drawn attention over the years for a variety of controversial statements and actions, including a GoFundMe campaign for her pet’s emergency medical expenses and past traffic violations, despite advocating for anti-car legislation. Her past behavior has continued to invite criticism.
Furthermore, Gallagher’s political affiliations and activities have been scrutinized, including participation in events linked to disputed organizations. Critics argue her comments reflect broader ideologies aimed at destabilizing local businesses rather than addressing root causes of theft.
City Councilwoman Vicki Palladino commented on Gallagher’s remarks, emphasizing that they encourage theft and could lead to the closure of retail establishments—a point echoed by former politicians who characterized Gallagher’s views as dangerously naive.
Responses from political peers, including City Councilwoman Joanne Arriola, indicated that Gallagher’s approach could exacerbate the struggles of businesses already facing difficulties in a challenging economic environment. They highlighted concerns that promoting theft undermines the foundational rights of business owners.
