The $267 million will be disbursed through grants to a total of 55 agencies, including local police departments, sheriff’s offices, and district attorney’s offices.
Over the next three years, these grants will enable law enforcement to establish specialized investigative units, increase foot patrols in vulnerable areas, acquire cutting-edge surveillance technology and equipment, and intensify efforts to combat vehicle theft and catalytic converter theft, a mounting concern particularly in the Bay Area.
A portion of the funds will be allocated to bolster units within district attorney’s offices focused on prosecuting these crimes.
Highlighting the impact of this investment, California Highway Patrol Commissioner Sean Duryee hailed it as a “game changer” that should significantly enhance the state’s capacity to combat organized retail crime.
Speaking at a news conference on Friday, Duryee emphasized the importance of these resources as a “force multiplier” in the battle against criminal organizations.
