Tulare County prosecutors have filed their first felony cases under Proposition 36, a 2024 ballot measure that addressed theft and drug crimes, the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office said in a statement.

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“The message is clear: Californians demand accountability for repeat offenders. The crimes addressed by Proposition 36 greatly affect the quality of life for those who live and work in our Tulare County communities,” said District Attorney Tim Ward.

About Prop 36

Proposition 36 allows prosecutors to file felony charges for theft and shoplifting when offenders have two prior theft-related convictions.

It also mandates stricter penalties and treatment for felony drug possession involving hard narcotics, such as fentanyl, for individuals with two prior convictions.

The measure received 68.4% voter approval on the November ballot.

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Since the measure’s implementation in mid-December, Tulare County prosecutors have filed felony theft charges against 13 defendants and felony drug possession charges against 12 defendants, crimes that previously would have been classified as misdemeanors.

“Prior to the implementation of this new law, these crimes would have been filed as misdemeanors and the revolving door for repeat offenders would have continued. These are now felony crimes, and have been filed as such,” Ward said.

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