In the wake of a wave of flash mob robberies targeting 7-Eleven stores across Southern California, local franchisees and 7-Eleven, Inc. have taken a financial stance. A total of $1 million has been donated to support Proposition 36, which seeks to impose harsher penalties for repeat theft and drug offenders. According to ABC7, the franchisees and the company announced the contribution during a press conference.
Jawad Ursani, a 7-Eleven owner whose store was hit twice by such incidents relayed the agonizing emotions tied to these crimes, saying, "It's like someone coming into your house and turning it upside down," as ABC7 reported. Shoplifting groups have targeted stores from La Cienega and Olympic boulevards to Anaheim, with videos showing large numbers of teenagers looting the store.
Proposition 36 has been divisive, with advocates claiming it would lead to increased safety and accountability for those repeatedly breaking the law. Debbie Thomas of the LA Police Protective League highlighted the importance of taking a stand against crime, stating, "We will not tolerate lawlessness in our neighborhoods and society," in an interview with CBS News.
Further support was seen from Randy Quinn, Senior Vice President of Franchise Operations for 7-Eleven, Inc., who said, "Today’s event is a testament to the dedication of our Franchisees and the entire 7-Eleven family," as stated by NBC Los Angeles. However, Claire Simonich from the Vera Institute of Justice raised budgetary concerns, speculating that implementing Prop 36 would extend beyond millions to billions of taxpayer dollars, and potentially undo years of effort towards reducing mass incarceration.
