Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that authorizes warrantless arrests to be made for misdemeanor shopping offenses that total less than $950 and amends sections of the California penal code.

Highlights:

• Specifies that officers have the authority to make warrantless arrests even if the officer was not physically present (Sec. 1).

• Requires probable cause to make an arrest to be based on a sworn statement obtained from an individual who witnessed the crime and alerted an officer (Sec. 1).

• Defines an arresting agency as any agency that has the appropriate authority to offer and provide fingerprinting and booking services (Sec. 2).

• Requires an individual arrested with a misdemeanor to be released if they do not demand to be taken in front of a magistrate (Sec. 3).

• Requires officers to deliver written notices to court about the arrest (Sec. 2).

• Requires the speedy trial process to be tolled for 45 days following the start date of the investigation of the case (Sec. 3).

• Specifies that if there is no response from the prosecuting attorney within the 45 days of trial, the court must make a finding of factual innocence (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text