California Shoplifters Shocked as Stealing Upgraded to Felony: Outrage Over New Laws
Police in California recently released a shocking video capturing the moment three alleged shoplifters found out that the penalty for their crime had been upgraded to a felony. The incident, which unfolded at a Ulta Beauty store, has sparked outrage over the state’s new laws.
Caught on Camera
The surveillance footage, shared by the Seal Beach Police Department on their Instagram account, shows three women entering the Ulta Beauty store, perusing the aisles, and then nonchalantly walking out with nearly $650 worth of stolen merchandise. The women then moved on to a Kohls store, where they allegedly stole additional items, bringing their total haul to almost $1,000.
Unraveling the Shock
Bodycam footage from the police officers on the scene captures the moment when the women are confronted and subsequently arrested. In the back of the patrol car, one of the women expresses disbelief upon learning that their actions now constitute a felony offense in California. The response? “B—h new laws,” highlighting the women’s shock and frustration at the consequences of their actions.
Legal Consequences
The trio, identified as Destiny Bender, 24, Deanna Hines, 24, and Michelle Pitts, 26, were all from various cities in California and were booked into the Orange County Jail on charges of Grand Theft, Conspiracy to Commit a Crime, and Resisting Arrest. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the repercussions of organized retail theft and the importance of adhering to the law.
Revisiting Legislation
The shift in penalties for theft offenses in California stems from Proposition 36, also known as the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act. This legislation sought to reverse certain soft-on-crime policies implemented by Proposition 47, which downgraded many thefts from felonies to misdemeanors back in 2014. The recent changes aim to address the rise in retail theft and crime by increasing punishments for specific offenses.
The pushback against these legislative changes has been met with controversy, with some arguing for a more progressive approach to criminal justice. However, the enforcement of stricter penalties in cases of organized retail theft underscores the state’s commitment to combating crime effectively.
The incident involving the shoplifters serves as a cautionary tale for individuals engaging in illegal activities and highlights the importance of understanding and abiding by the law to avoid serious consequences. As California continues to grapple with evolving legislation and its impact on crime rates, the need for community awareness and adherence to legal standards remains crucial to maintaining public safety and order.