Following Proposition 36’s full effect, the Seal Beach Police Department had to chase and catch up with three shoplifters outside a Kohl’s California store. The young women all raced once they spotted the officers in uniforms and consequently resisted arrest. Once they were restrained by handcuffs and put inside a police vehicle, they turned to each other wearing puzzling looks.

One of the thieves then blurted out questions about the change in the city’s laws concerning theft. She goes “New laws, stealing is a felony…” Without breaking a sweat, the shoplifter then added that the new upgrade signified that Orange County meant business. Destiny Bender, Deanna Hines, and Michelle Pitts were booked into the Orange County Jail and charged with Grand Theft, Conspiracy to Commit a Crime, and Resisting Arrest.

Before their arrest, surveillance footage spotlighted three women between the ages of 24 to 26. Inside they stole merchandise worth around $900. After walking around for some time, they rushed out of the door. That was when a Seal police officer launched at them.

With their arrest, the California shoplifters will face a more severe punishment than what they all knew. This comes as a surprise to them because it was only last week that the law upgrade occurred. Previously, the 2014 law stipulated that thieves could cup a misdemeanor charge if the stolen merchandise was below $950.

But this only encouraged retail thieves and left business owners in a fix. However, under Proposition 36, the police have the power to charge shoplifters in Seal, California for a felony. This law has gone on to empower the authorities but will possibly cause people to rethink before they steal in Seal.

#Clique, what are your thoughts?