California Governor Signs Bill Imposing Tougher Penalties for Smash-and-Grab Robberies

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Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a new bill into law, reinstating harsh penalties for those involved in smash-and-grab robberies, a crime that has increasingly plagued California's retail sector. The bill, part of a broader public safety package, introduces stricter sentencing enhancements and felony charges for large-scale theft operations.

“Violent ‘sledgehammer crimes’ and flash-mob attacks by organized gangs must stop now,” said Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, who authored the bill. The legislation allows for the aggregation of stolen goods' value across multiple incidents, enabling prosecutors to pursue felony charges more effectively.

Rachel Michelin, President and CEO of the California Retailers Association, emphasized that the law sends a clear message: "Such illicit and dangerous activities will not be tolerated." The bill also strengthens law enforcement's ability to arrest suspects even without witnessing the crime in progress.

The law is part of Governor Newsom’s larger effort to combat organized retail crime. Since 2019, the state has invested $1.1 billion in public safety initiatives, including $267 million in grants to local law enforcement agencies, which have resulted in over 6,900 arrests related to retail and property crime offenses in just the first six months of the grant cycle.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert G. Luna praised the bill, stating, “This piece of legislation is vital in ensuring that those who continue to undermine our community’s well-being face appropriate consequences.”

The new law aims to deter organized retail theft and protect businesses, consumers, and communities across California from the adverse effects of these crimes.