Impacts of Prop 47 on the Central Coast

Changes to Proposition 47 could be on the ballot this November as Lieutentant Governor Gavin Newsom prepares to push a new gun control initiative. The controversial law was passed by voters two years ago.

According to Monterey County Sheriff Steve Bernal, some of the people busted in the Toro Park and Las Palmas break-in spree were on felony probation or parole.

“Thanks to Prop 47, they know going into an unlocked car is now a misdemeanor. They’re fully aware of that,” said Bernal.

Prop 47, also known as “safe neighborhoods and schools,” re-classified several non-serious, non violent crimes from felonies to misdemeanors for certain offenses like shoplifting, grand theft, forgery and fraud — all where the value was under $950 — and use of most illegal drugs.

While Salinas Police Chief Kelly Mcmillin supports treatment and diversion programs, he says he sees cracks in the system.

“Pretty sophisticated criminals are gaming that system,” he said. “They’re not breaking into cars because they know that’s a felony. They’re going into unlocked cars because that’s misdemeanor conduct.”

The Monterey County District Attorney’s Office says felony filings were down by a third last year but misdemeanor failure to appears were up by nearly half.

Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom, a Prop 47 supporter, says he knows there are problems with the initiative.

“I have a ballot initiative that actually does modify Proposition 47, so we’re actually putting it on the ballot, specifically related to the issues of gun possession,” Newsom said. “So, there are issues in 47 that we need to look at. I’m intimately aware of those concerns.”

Proposed changes could include making all gun thefts felonies, regardless of value. Despite the challenges, there have been triumphs.

Melissa Mata is a counselor with Pueblo del Mar, a transitional housing facility for families in recovery at the Nancy Dodd Community Center in Marina. She says the people she has helped navigate through the prop 47 process are greatful for the second chance. She encourages critics to come and hear their stories of success.

“Prop 47 has given our residents a second opportunity after the mistakes of their past, an opportunity to clean up the wreckage of their past and open up doors for potential employment, possible housing aspects once they depart Pueblo del Mar,” she said.