New York's governor has taken action to address the rise in subway crime by deploying the National Guard and state police to patrol the city's subway system. The move comes in response to a 13% increase in major crimes on the subway compared to last year, as reported by the NYPD.
Meanwhile, on the West Coast, Democratic mayors in California are supporting a new ballot measure aimed at toughening punishments for criminals. The proposed measure, which has garnered 75% of the signatures needed to get on the ballot in November, seeks to address the surge in crime in the state.
The push for stricter penalties is fueled by heartbreaking stories like that of Marlene Hardin, whose teenage daughter died from fentanyl poisoning after purchasing a pill laced with the drug from a dealer on Snapchat. Hardin believes that California's current criminal policies, including Proposition 47 which reduced punishments for certain crimes, played a role in her daughter's death.
The proposed Homelessness Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act aims to overturn parts of Proposition 47 and introduce harsher penalties for drug dealers and repeat offenders. Under the new proposal, individuals caught stealing less than $950 worth of merchandise could face felony charges for repeat offenses, a departure from the current misdemeanor charges under Proposition 47.
The rise in retail theft, attributed to lenient laws under Proposition 47, has prompted support for the new measure from big retailers, Republicans, and even some Democratic mayors like San Francisco Mayor London Breed. Breed, who is facing a tough reelection campaign, emphasizes the importance of accountability in addressing crime and ensuring community safety.
While the proposed law has gained support from various quarters, including lawmakers and district attorneys, there are differing opinions on the issue. Some, like former inmate Robbie Papa Tan Tran, stress the need to address underlying issues such as mental health and poverty to prevent crime.
As California voters gear up for the upcoming ballot, the debate over criminal justice reform and public safety continues, highlighting the complexities of the issue and the diverse perspectives at play.
