As we previously reported, Dom DeLuca of Brooklyn Projects took to social media and blasted the robbers who targeted his shop for not wanting to get a job after the suspects looted his store.
On the other hand, Warning Skate Shop also had an issue with theft, and the business owner George experienced it three times already. He couldn't do anything but ask for skaters to help him with a GoFundMe campaign.
Recent reports indicate that theft is increasingly prevalent in California, to the point where it has become a common occurrence.
People in LA are getting worried about crime being taken lightly after a safe was stolen in a home burglary. Over in Playa Del Rey, homeowners are pretty mad and upset because burglars broke into their place and took a bunch of personal stuff, including a safe with loads of cash, jewelry, and family keepsakes worth tens of thousands of dollars.
Mytien Goldberg stated, "The sad thing is that nothing is being done about this. Even the police told us that if the culprits are caught, they are being released immediately. Even the police told us that their hands are tied."
Under Proposition 47, stealing merchandise worth $950 or less is classified as a misdemeanor rather than a felony. This means that if someone commits theft of items valued at $950 or less, they face misdemeanor charges, which typically result in lighter penalties compared to felony charges. However, it's important to note that it's still considered a crime, and offenders can be prosecuted.
According to Law Office of Salvatore P. Cuilla, Penal Code 488 is the California law that deals with petty theft. If you steal property or services worth $950 or less, it's considered a misdemeanor. You could face a maximum fine of $1,000 and up to six months in county jail. However, in some cases, a judge might allow probation instead of jail time.
A lot of people are saying that we need to take another look at Proposition 47 and make some changes to address how it's affecting small businesses and retail security.
Both Brooklyn Projects and Warning Skate Shop are hoping for a solution that's fair to everyone – one that brings justice while also providing practical support for theft victims.