San Diego District Attorney Summer Stephan is preparing to enforce Proposition 36, a new crime-fighting measure recently approved by California voters. The measure aims to provide a carrot-and-stick approach to drug crimes by pushing more defendants into drug courts for treatment rather than prison sentences. Stephan believes that filling drug court slots will save lives and help people overcome addiction.
Under drug court supervision, participants undergo treatment, frequent drug testing, therapy, and other services. The goal is to break the link between substance abuse, theft, and incarceration. While supporters see Proposition 36 as a positive step towards reducing addiction-related crime, critics fear it could strain resources and disproportionately impact marginalized communities.
The new measure is expected to lead to a significant increase in felony cases and additional arrests. Despite concerns about the potential strain on social services and law enforcement costs, Stephan maintains that Proposition 36 could ultimately save money by preventing addiction and incarceration through treatment programs.
In anticipation of the measure taking effect in December, Stephan’s office is preparing to handle the increased caseload. She points to a recent ballot measure that authorizes bonding for mental health and drug treatment facilities as a potential funding source. Ultimately, Stephan sees Proposition 36 as a response to public demand for increased public safety measures, particularly in light of rising fentanyl overdoses and theft crimes.
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Photo credit voiceofsandiego.org
