California’s Tough New Retail Crime Laws: Accountability on the Horizon

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — New legislation aimed at combating retail crime will come into effect at the start of the new year. On Thursday, Attorney General Rob Bonta shared a summary of these ten new laws with law enforcement agencies in anticipation of the upcoming changes.

These laws target a range of offenses, including smash and grabs, organized retail theft, and vehicle theft. Bonta emphasized accountability, stating, “If you break these laws, you will be held accountable.”

Governor Newsom signed the organized retail crime bills into law in August, equipping law enforcement with enhanced tools to combat this growing issue. Bonta highlighted that these measures address existing gaps that have hindered justice for victims and increased difficulties for prosecutors.

Key provisions include a legislative change that enables the consolidation of theft cases affecting multiple victims or counties, aimed at streamlining prosecution efforts. Additionally, new penalties will be imposed for selling stolen property valued at $50,000 or more, specifically targeting incidents of smash and grabs.

Enhanced penalties for car break-ins and auto thefts are also part of this initiative. A new offense will be established for possessing stolen items that were taken during a vehicle theft or unlawful entry.

“For perpetrators who are looking to skirt our laws and exploit potential loopholes, those days are over,” Bonta declared, reinforcing the message that enforcement will be tightened.

The new laws will also involve the renewal of task forces and diversion programs. To date, the California Highway Patrol has recovered over $46 million worth of stolen merchandise since 2019, showcasing the effectiveness of such initiatives.

In a related move, voters will have an opportunity to weigh in on related issues in November. Ballot measure Prop 36 will permit felony charges and increased sentences for certain drug and theft-related offenses, broadening the scope of the discussion on how to tackle these crimes.