Sheriff Calls Out Newsom

Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper is accusing California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Democratic lawmakers of failing crime victims, arguing that years of soft-on-crime policies have weakened public safety despite voters demanding tougher enforcement. During a recent interview, Cooper said state leaders continue to resist meaningful reforms even after Californians overwhelmingly approved Proposition 36, a ballot measure designed to crack down on repeat offenders.

Speaking with KCRA 3’s California Politics 360, Cooper criticized the state’s handling of crime, mental health diversion programs, domestic violence laws, and the rollout of Proposition 36, saying lawmakers have not done enough to address growing public safety concerns.

When asked to evaluate the governor and Legislature’s response to crime, Cooper offered a blunt assessment.

“Not enough. Not enough,” Cooper said. “It’s frustrating that people are hesitant to do anything.”

His comments come as California lawmakers enter the final weeks of this year’s legislative session, with limited time remaining to send legislation to Newsom’s desk before lawmakers adjourn.

California Sheriff Says Crime Policies Need Stronger Enforcement

Although California recently reported its lowest homicide rate in nearly 60 years, Cooper questioned whether that statistic reflects the broader reality facing many communities. He argued that residents continue to deal with repeat offenders, retail theft, drug crimes, and violent offenses that demand stronger action from state leaders.

Cooper said protecting law-abiding citizens and supporting crime victims should remain the state’s top priority.

Proposition 36 Wins Voter Support but Faces Funding Challenges

One of Cooper’s strongest criticisms centered on Proposition 36, the voter-approved initiative passed in 2024 to strengthen penalties for repeat theft and drug offenses.

The law also allows qualifying offenders to seek dismissal of felony charges after successfully completing a court-ordered drug rehabilitation or mental health treatment program.

Proposition 36 was approved by roughly 70% of California voters and carried all 58 counties, making it one of the state’s most broadly supported public safety measures in recent years.

Cooper noted that despite overwhelming public support, few statewide elected officials backed the initiative before voters approved it.

According to the sheriff, the law is already producing encouraging results, with some retailers reporting fewer theft incidents since its implementation.

However, Cooper argued the state has failed to provide the funding necessary for the measure to achieve its full potential.

“The issue is no funding. No funding came with it.”

He added that while the law appears to be working, its long-term success depends on providing local agencies with the resources needed to enforce it effectively.

State officials have pointed to a $375 million public safety investment included in this year’s budget. However, budget documents indicate that only about $50 million is specifically designated for Proposition 36, with those funds primarily supporting courts and pretrial services.

Sheriff Warns Mental Health Diversion Could Undermine Accountability

Cooper also expressed concern about California’s mental health diversion system, which allows qualifying defendants to receive treatment instead of traditional criminal penalties.

He warned that expanding diversion eligibility to include additional theft-related offenses could weaken Proposition 36 by reducing accountability for repeat offenders.

According to Cooper, some offenses are simply too serious to qualify for diversion programs. He pointed to cases involving felony child abuse and sexually violent predators as examples where treatment should not replace criminal prosecution.

Although Newsom and California lawmakers recently approved changes intended to strengthen oversight of the diversion system, Cooper argued those reforms still do not go far enough to protect the public.

Sheriff Calls for Tougher Domestic Violence Laws

Another issue Cooper highlighted was California’s treatment of domestic violence crimes.

He argued that many domestic violence offenses still are not classified as violent felonies, despite the devastating injuries victims often suffer.

Drawing on investigations handled by his office, Cooper described cases involving prolonged assaults and life-altering injuries, including victims who suffered days of abuse.

Cooper said domestic violence affects families regardless of income, background, or neighborhood and deserves far stronger legal consequences.

When asked why some lawmakers continue to oppose classifying domestic violence as a violent felony, Cooper said he believes there is no convincing justification.

“They have no argument. They just vote against it.”

Cooper Urges California Leaders to Put Victims First

Cooper concluded by urging California leaders to shift their focus back toward protecting victims and holding repeat offenders accountable.

“We’ve got to get back to the victims,” Cooper said.

His remarks highlight the ongoing debate over California’s approach to crime and public safety. While state leaders continue to balance criminal justice reform with rehabilitation efforts, many law enforcement officials argue that tougher enforcement, stronger penalties for repeat offenders, and full funding for voter-approved initiatives like Proposition 36 are essential to restoring public confidence.

With the legislative session entering its final stretch, public safety and crime policy are expected to remain among the most closely watched issues in Sacramento as lawmakers decide whether to pursue additional reforms before the year comes to a close.