California Governor Signs Bills to Combat Theft

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bipartisan package of 10 bills aimed at combatting the rise of smash-and-grab robberies and property crimes, particularly targeting repeat shoplifters and auto thieves. The legislation implements significant reforms, allowing law enforcement to aggregate stolen goods' value from multiple victims for harsher penalties and enabling arrests based on video footage or witness statements. This response comes as California faces increasing public pressure over retail theft incidents prominently featured on social media. Newsom emphasized the thoughtful approach of the legislation, which garnered bipartisan support despite some concerns from progressive Democrats about potential punitive measures. Additionally, the bills also address cargo theft, close loopholes in auto theft prosecutions, and require online marketplaces to verify high-volume sellers' identities. This legislative move is seen as a strategic effort by Democratic leadership to demonstrate a commitment to public safety amidst ongoing discussions about harsher sentencing measures for repeat offenders.