Governor Newsom Signs AB 1960 to Combat Out-of-Control Retail and Property Crime in California

AB 1960 reinforces California’s efforts to protect businesses and consumers, particularly against the rise of "smash-and-grab" crimesPhoto byKarsten WinegeartonUnsplash

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom has signed AB 1960, a significant bill aimed at cracking down on large-scale property and retail theft in California. Authored by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, the new law enforces harsher sentencing for felony property crimes exceeding $50,000 in value. This includes enhanced penalties for those who steal, damage, or resell stolen goods. The bill is part of a broader public safety package designed to strengthen the state’s ability to combat organized retail crime.

Governor Newsom emphasized California’s leadership in addressing crime, stating, "We can be tough on crime while being smart on crime," as he noted the state’s commitment to holding criminals accountable without reverting to outdated mass incarceration policies. The state’s investment in public safety has already shown strong results, with over 6,900 arrests in the first half of the year due to grants supporting local law enforcement.

AB 1960 reinforces California’s efforts to protect businesses and consumers, particularly against the rise of "smash-and-grab" crimes and organized retail theft, with enhanced penalties and expanded law enforcement tools. Speaker Rivas praised the bill as a critical step toward securing communities and ensuring that criminals face appropriate consequences.