Proposition 36, passed by California voters in November, elevates certain theft offenses from misdemeanors to felonies. Marcos Smith-Pequeno, previously charged with theft, became one of the first cases under this law in San Francisco. He was involved in organized retail theft at a Walgreens. Despite his serious charges, he was released from jail, prompting further criticism of judicial leniency from officials. Police are now focused on preventing further thefts in affected areas, illustrating the urgent response to rising retail crimes under the new law.
"They did a sort of flash mob style shoplifting where they entered the store in large numbers, overwhelmed the staff and ran out with products," said Dave Burke.
"It's always in the hands of the court to make that decision...it is incumbent upon the judges to be responsible and to take public safety into account," said Jenkins.
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