NEW YORK, Dec. 27 (Xinhua) -- A statewide crackdown on retail crimes resulted in the arrests of at least 117 people in connection with the theft of nearly 40,000 U.S. dollars in merchandise, according to U.S. Californian authorities.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and several other police departments carried out the operation on Dec. 20, resulting in the arrests of 117 people and recovering 38,000 dollars in stolen merchandise, according to a news release from Governor Gavin Newsom.
Two firearms were also seized, along with three stolen vehicles, according to the release. The arrested suspects are expected to be charged with a range of crimes, including petty theft, grand theft and organized retail crime.
Authorities recovered 767 stolen items, including clothing, fragrances and shoes, officials said. The CHP collaborated with 10 California law enforcement agencies and 56 retail partners.
California voters approved Proposition 36 in November, which made shoplifting a felony for repeat offenders and increased penalties for some drug charges. A felony conviction could mean jail time of up to three years. ■
