California smash-and-grabs blamed on decriminalization of theft

The organized criminal ransacking of stores in California, a state where Democratic lawmakers have dramatically reduced penalties for shoplifting, is part of a nationwide epidemic that retailers say is adding to costs.

Just days after high-end stores in the San Francisco Bay Area were targeted, a group of about 20 thieves smashed windows and looted a Nordstrom department store in Los Angeles on Monday night, prompting vows from state and local officials that order would be restored in time for the upcoming holiday shopping season.  Los Angeles Police arrested three suspects in the smash-and-grab there and promised beefed-up patrols around high-end stores citywide ahead of the Thanksgiving and Black Friday weekend… (Excerpts from the Washington Times)