By Noel Gallo / Ngallo@oaklandca.gov
Jun 12, 2024, 18:46 PM EDT
Unchecked theft, drug addiction and homelessness have plagued California communities, straining cities’ resources and decreasing the quality of life for residents – especially in Oakland. I have seen firsthand the devastating impact these issues have on vibrant communities like ours, which have seen small businesses close their doors because they can no longer handle the losses from petty theft or organized crime. This is not only an issue that affects our small businesses, but people in our communities no longer feel safe walking through shopping centers or shopping.
As a member of the Oakland City Council and chair of the Public Safety Committee, we constantly hear story after story from small business owners and residents who have been directly affected by widespread theft, homelessness, and drug trafficking.
Our businesses are constantly being attacked, leaving employees exposed and afraid to go to work. This puts a burden on our businesses, which are trying to keep their doors open, but have to focus their energy on protecting themselves against crime by spending money on additional security measures. This financial strain is something many small businesses cannot afford, leading to numerous closures.
Many businesses that experience repeated thefts face higher insurance premiums and often choose to pay out of pocket rather than file claims. These are the realities our business community faces every day. We can’t stand by while more businesses are forced to lock up their products, inconveniencing customers and driving them to shop elsewhere. The livelihoods of business owners are at stake and it is our responsibility to address these situations. Earlier this year, I asked my fellow council members to join me in declaring a state of emergency as we face an increase in crime – violent and street crime – to increase the number of patrols and the presence of law enforcement officers.
We shouldn’t have to stand by and watch as more and more businesses are forced to lock up their merchandise to prevent theft, inconveniencing their customers and leading them to shop elsewhere. We cannot allow business owners to lose their livelihoods because they have to close their stores due to the losses they have suffered.
The current situation is urgent. Theft is not just an economic issue; It is a public safety issue that affects the daily lives of residents and business owners. These businesses are lifelines of our communities, providing necessary goods and services and contributing to our local economies.
Our city governments are overwhelmed and cannot effectively address these multifaceted problems without addressing the unintended consequences of Proposition 47, which reduced nonviolent crimes from a felony to a misdemeanor.
Homelessness, theft, and drug addiction are highly interconnected. Often, people struggling with drug addiction face financial problems and turn to theft to support their habits. Untreated addiction perpetuates cycles of crime and homelessness, creating an environment where people are afraid to walk their streets and shop locally.
The Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act provides a common-sense approach to addressing the challenges facing our small businesses while equipping law enforcement agencies with the tools necessary to prosecute crimes and hold perpetrators accountable. repeat retail theft offenders and drug traffickers.
Under current law, there are few incentives for drug offenders to undergo mandatory treatment, and repeat offenders are not held accountable for their crimes. This initiative requires treatment for offenders, with the possibility of avoiding jail time upon completion. In Oakland we have seen how addiction can devastate lives, families and communities. This initiative aims to close legal loopholes that allow repeat offenders to evade full responsibility.
The Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act offers an effective approach, recognizing the need for tough measures against serious offenders and compassionate support for those suffering from addiction and homelessness. Provides local governments with the resources needed to support homeless and drug treatment programs, while encouraging people to seek help.
The long-term benefits of the Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act are clear. By addressing these issues broadly, we can create safer, stronger communities.