Riverside County law enforcement celebrates California's passage of Proposition 36

Riverside County law enforcement officials are celebrating the passage of Proposition 36, which increases penalties for certain theft and drug-related crimes. Repeat offenders of shoplifting will now face felony charges, a significant change from previous misdemeanor penalties. The new law also allows judges to mandate treatment for individuals with multiple drug charges. Officials highlight that this change reflects community frustration over crime, particularly affecting local businesses. However, the law may strain the already overcrowded jail system in Riverside County. Sheriff Chad Bianco noted that funding is needed to manage the increased capacity, with potential costs of $50-$60 million annually for the Indio jail.