San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office Announces Robust Enforcement of Proposition 36: 33 Theft and 22 Drug Felony Cases Pursued

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office, under the leadership of District Attorney Ron Freitas, proudly announces a decisive step forward in restoring law and order with the aggressive enforcement of Proposition 36. Since its implementation, our office has pursued 33 felony theft cases and 22 felony drug cases, sending a clear message: crime will once again be illegal in San Joaquin County.

Proposition 36, known as The Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act, has empowered our office to hold repeat offenders accountable, ensuring that those who prey on our communities face real consequences. This landmark legislation reverses years of leniency, reclassifying certain theft and drug offenses as felonies and providing a pathway to treatment for those willing to change. In San Joaquin County, we are wielding this tool with unwavering resolve to protect our families, businesses, and neighborhoods.

“For too long, San Joaquin County has suffered under policies that emboldened criminals and left law-abiding citizens defenseless,” said District Attorney Ron Freitas. “With Proposition 36, we’re taking back our streets, crime will once again be illegal in San Joaquin, and we are delivering justice to victims. I’m proud to lead this charge—because safety isn’t negotiable, and criminals don’t get a free pass anymore.”

The 33 theft cases include packaged retail thefts that once slipped through the cracks as misdemeanors, now elevated to felonies to reflect their cumulative harm. The 22 drug felony cases target repeat offenders, offering treatment-mandated options while ensuring accountability for those who refuse to reform. These efforts mark a turning point in our fight against rampant theft and the scourge of addiction-fueled crime.

District Attorney Freitas extends heartfelt gratitude to our law enforcement partners, whose tireless collaboration has made this crackdown possible. “To the deputies, officers, and investigators across San Joaquin County—thank you. Your dedication to upholding the law and protecting our communities is the backbone of this success. Together, we’re building a safer future.”

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office remains committed to a zero-tolerance approach, working hand-in-hand with local, state, and federal partners to enforce Proposition 36 and beyond. This is just the beginning. We will continue to prosecute crime relentlessly, support victims, and restore the safety our residents deserve.