During a recent Town Hall meeting, the Los Angeles County Sheriff spoke about issues his department plans to focus on in 2016. He focused on two key points: human trafficking and Prop 47. Law enforcement attitudes and beliefs shape the way that defendants’ cases are built by the DA’s office – which means that this will directly impact the accused in the near future. Here are a couple things you should know about what the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department will be focusing on in 2016.

Human Trafficking
The Sheriff mentioned several sources that contribute to the problem of human trafficking in Los Angeles County. He says that rap music and gang activity play a major role in human trafficking – but that his Department will be focusing on the market for human trafficking, directly. In other words, the Sheriff believes that if there is no “demand” for the “product,” then human trafficking will decrease. Because much of the solicitation for sex occurs on the internet, LASD plans to prosecute those accused of soliciting sex with minors on the internet to the fullest extent.
It is also important to note that those convicted of soliciting sex with a minor will be required to register for life as a sex offender under California Penal Code 290. This section of the Penal Code does not require that you actually even meet with the minor. The Penal Code also does not require that you solicit sex with a person who is actually a minor – meaning even if you are actually speaking with a cop through a sting operation, you may still have to register as a sex offender for the rest of your life. Registration makes all of your information available to the public – including your address and the Penal Code under which you were convicted.
More information about California's Pimping & Pandering Laws
More information about California's Prostitution Laws

Prop 47
Prop 47, passed by California voters in 2014, re-categorized specific nonviolent offenses as misdemeanors – rather than felonies, as previously categorized. The measure was adopted in response to the overcrowding in California prisons – but was met with great opposition, as well. Those who oppose Prop 47 say that it contributes to neighborhoods being less safe, and that those who deal drugs deserve more than a “slap on the wrist.”  Since Prop 47 did not address sales offenses, this criticism lacks legitimacy.  Still, it is important to note that the Sheriff's department and other law enforcement agencies are not happy about the lessened penalties for those they arrest.  And they are fighting back.

LASD also seems to oppose Prop 47. Aside from suggesting that an alternative measure should be adopted in place of Prop 47, the Sheriff explained his belief that Prop 47 is not serving the purpose is was supposed to. So what does this mean for defendants? Since Prop 47 is met with such opposition by nearly every law enforcement agency in California, some officers charge the accused for more severe crimes than were actually committed just to get around Prop 47. For example, if someone is arrested for committing theft (a misdemeanor under Prop 47), the officer may charge the accused of robbery (a felony). Without a good criminal defense attorney, the state could argue that this case fits within the felony parameters, meaning a harsher punishment for the defendant.  Another common example is that those caught possessing drugs are now being charged with possession for sale or bringing drugs into a jail (for being arrested with drugs on them) so that the state can still charge a felony.
More information about Prop 47
More information about California Theft Crimes
More information about California Drug Crimes

Although not all law enforcement officers go to such extreme measures to get around Prop 47, and although the Sheriff did not condone this practice at the recent town hall meeting, this practice is not unheard of. It’s important that citizens stay aware of topics in which their local police department plans to focus on, because it may have a large impact on you or a loved one.