In the wake of recent updates to Proposition 36, the Folsom Police Department has reported a significant uptick in arrests related to crimes that they cite would have previously have resulted in citations. The department’s Problem Oriented Policing (POP) Team recently conducted seven operations targeting organized retail theft, which has been an ongoing problem for local businesses. I those operations alone, the department reports they completed 30 arrests.
Among those arrested, six were charged with resisting arrest, two with repeat theft offenses, and three for involvement in organized retail theft. These arrests were made possible due to recent changes in Proposition 36, which, became effective as of December, expanded the circumstances under which law enforcement officers can make arrests for crimes that were once only eligible for citation.
One notable incident the department shared this week occurred when officers apprehended 19-year-old David Hicks from Rancho Cordova. Hicks was caught stealing $100 worth of alcohol from Target Folsom and attempted to flee the scene on foot, an incident the deparment has shared body camera footage of to illustrate the agencies commitment to combat retail crime in the community.
Folsom Police Body Camera Footage of recent Retail Theft pursuit, arrest. (Folsom Police Video)
The department explained that the recently updated legislation enabled officers to pursue and arrest this suspect for shoplifting as well as resisting arrest. Previously, this would have been a citation without arrest and resulting in very little consequences for the suspect.
Over $10,000 worth of stolen merchandise was recovered during these operations, according to the department’s report which also highlighted that the changes to Proposition 36 have, empowered officers to take a more proactive approach in addressing retail theft, which has seen a notable rise in recent years. With the new law in place, those involved in repeat offenses or organized theft are now facing arrests and stronger penalties.
“We are committed to keeping Folsom safe and appreciate the community’s ongoing support in helping us tackle these crimes,” Folsom Police shared in a statement
The operations have not only helped recover significant amounts of stolen merchandise but also send a clear message that the department will continue to combat theft and other crimes t keep the community safe.