After analyzing crime statistics in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, the California State Auditor found that the percentage of individuals with four or more convictions who reoffended increased after Prop 47 by 12% and the frequency of theft convictions among those with four or more convictions increased after Prop 47 by 14%.

Furthermore, the State Auditor included recommendations to address the harmful impacts of Prop 47 by “Either by enacting legislation that is consistent with and furthers the intent of Proposition 47, or by enacting a proposal for approval by the voters that would amend Proposition 47, to allow more severe punishment for those convicted multiple times of theft, likely by identifying such offenses as potential felonies instead of automatically classifying them as misdemeanors.”

Proposition 36 is aligned with the State Auditor’s recommendation as it will allow for a felony charge on the third conviction of theft specifically to hold repeat theft offenders accountable. Proposition 36, the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act will:

• Hold those who are committing repeated retail theft and fentanyl sales crimes accountable for the safety and health of our communities.
• Create accountability for repeat smash-and-grab offenders who are driving up costs for all Californians and chasing retailers out of the state.
• Bring back incentives and accountability needed for individuals to get into necessary drug treatment and job training programs — helping them begin new lives. Currently, those arrested multiple times for hard drug use have no incentive to choose treatment with no consequences.

For more information, please visit VoteYesProp36.com.