In response to a surge in looting, California is amping up criminal enforcement. With the passage of Proposition 36, repeat offenders now face felony charges and harsher penalties for organized theft. Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascon has begun filing felony charges in larger theft cases. At least 30 individuals have reportedly been charged with felonies, including looting, assault on peace officers, and vandalism.
Critics blamed Gascon’s lenient justice policies for rising retail theft during protests. Businesses were looted, and local owners voiced concerns as videos showed widespread vandalism and theft.
Criminal defense attorney David Wohl said, “Now we have a very conservative, hard-charging DA in Los Angeles.” Wohl added, “He’s adding up what is stolen by each individual co-defendant, and if that’s over $950, everybody’s getting charged with felonies.”…