In a move that has sparked controversy, Sacramento’s legal department has reportedly threatened to fine a major retailer for repeatedly calling the police to report thefts.
This approach has drawn criticism from business owners, legal experts, and law enforcement officials alike.
According to the Sacramento Bee, city officials warned a Target store in Land Park that it could face fines for being a “public nuisance” due to frequent calls to police about theft incidents.
This tactic appears to be an attempt to reduce reported crime statistics rather than address the underlying issue of retail theft.
Nicole Castronova, a criminal defense attorney, criticized the city’s stance, stating, “No citizen should ever be penalized for lawfully calling upon its government for protection.” Alexander Gammelgard, president of the California Police Chiefs Association, echoed this sentiment, expressing surprise at the idea of treating legitimate crime reports as a nuisance.
Blake Randol, a criminal justice professor at California State University, Stanislaus, warned that such threats could discourage businesses from reporting crimes. “What’s problematic is that what Target is complaining about is a legitimate crime concern,” Randol noted.
The disconnect between the city’s apparent desire to suppress crime reports and the actual increase in theft incidents is striking.
Sacramento City Attorney’s Office warned Target it could face fines for retail theft calls https://t.co/dpC3VF7Jah
— The Sacramento Bee (@sacbee_news) July 9, 2024
Police data shows that Sacramento’s three Target locations experienced a significant rise in theft-related calls in 2023, with 375 reported incidents compared to 80 the previous year.
Assembly GOP Leader James Gallagher criticized the approach, saying, “Not only are thieves let off without even a slap on the wrist, but now the victims are being threatened for even reporting crimes.”
The city’s tactics raise serious questions about its commitment to public safety and business protection.
READ NEXT: U.S. Business Bankruptcies Up 40% Since January 2023, Hits 13 Year High
Officials responsible for this policy should be held publicly humiliated and then fired, as it undermines the trust between local government and businesses necessary for effective crime prevention and normal business operations.
