Vice President Kamala Harris is under fire from a California sheriff for not revealing her stance on a proposition in her home state designed to address the growing crime and theft issues. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco criticized California’s Democratic leaders for prioritizing criminals over crime victims and residents. Proposition 36, also known as the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act, aims to reverse some of the lenient policies put in place by California Democrats, with a focus on improving public safety and neighborhood security.
Despite being a former San Francisco district attorney, California attorney general, and U.S. senator, Vice President Harris refused to disclose her vote on Proposition 36. The measure, if passed, would elevate shoplifting to a felony for repeat offenders, increase penalties for certain drug charges like fentanyl-related offenses, and empower judges to mandate treatment for individuals with multiple drug charges.
Proposition 36 is an attempt to roll back the effects of Prop 47, which was approved by Californians in 2014. Prop 47 downgraded felonies to misdemeanors for many crimes, leading to an increase in theft, robberies, and organized crime activities targeting retail businesses. Sheriff Bianco, a vocal supporter of Prop 36, expressed frustration over feeling misled by the misleading title and summary of Prop 47 on the ballot.
The sheriff highlighted the rise in violent crime and brazen criminal behavior across the country, emphasizing the need for stronger measures to address public safety concerns. He criticized the failure of Prop 47 to deliver on its promise of safe schools and streets, attributing the increase in homelessness, mental health issues, and drug addiction to the leniency of the previous law.
Efforts to reach out to the Harris campaign for comment were unsuccessful, as they did not respond to inquiries. The debate over California’s criminal justice reforms and their impact on public safety continues to be a contentious issue, with stakeholders on both sides voicing their concerns and opinions. As the discussion unfolds, the focus remains on finding effective solutions to combat crime, protect communities, and ensure a safer environment for all residents.