Only Los Angeles County saw an increase in crime between 2010 and 2014.
Over the past several years, California has embarked on a series of criminal justice reforms designed to roll back some of its harshest “tough on crime” laws. Legislation, voter initiatives and rulings from California courts have brought about major changes in how the criminal justice system operates, often making it more equitable for anyone who has been charged or convicted of a crime.
These initiatives included Proposition 47, a 2014 ballot measure that reduced certain drug and theft crimes to misdemeanors, Proposition 57, an initiative to shrink the state’s prison population, Proposition 64, a ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana, and the Public Safety Realignment Law.
Many Californians feared that these reforms would lead to an increase in overall crime in the state. Yet according to a new report, the opposite is true. Between 2010 and 2016, the crime rate fell across California, other than in Los Angeles County, where the rate rose by 5 percent. In the rest of the state, property crime rates fell by 6 percent and violent crime fell by 2 percent. The study’s author believes that the increase in violent crime rates in Los Angeles County (by 8 percent) could be tied to an initiative to encourage people to report domestic violence and related assaults.
The fact that crime is down for most Californians is great news. For people who are in the criminal justice system, it is even better news. As Orange County criminal defense lawyers, we know that criminal justice reform is vital to protecting the interests of people accused of crime and ensuring that they receive fair trials and sentences if convicted. This study demonstrates that the reforms that have already taken place over the past several years have not have a negative impact on Californians’ safety and quality of life as a whole. This means that citizens can continue to support these initiatives, knowing that they will be risking a spike in the crime rate by making the laws more equitable for all.
At the Chambers Law Firm, our Orange County criminal defense lawyer are experienced at handling all types of criminal charges. From the initial arrangement through plea negotiations, trials and appeals, we will work hand in hand with you to ensure that you get the best possible defense. We are also knowledgeable about updates to the law that provide options to those who are currently incarcerated or who may be eligible to have their criminal or arrest record sealed or expunged. Contact us today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more about how we can help you.
