Recently, 7-Eleven convenience stores in Southern California have become frequent targets of “flash robbery” crimes, drawing significant attention from the community. In response to this growing trend, some 7-Eleven franchise owners are backing Proposal 36, which will be voted on in November, to classify these crimes as felonies.

On Thursday, 7-Eleven franchise owners announced at a press conference their contribution of $1 million to the campaign supporting Proposal 36. According to the official voter information guide, Proposal 36 would allow certain drug possession offenses and thefts of items valued at less than $950 to be classified as felonies, provided the defendant has a history of two or more prior drug or theft convictions.

If Proposal 36 is passed, individuals convicted of certain drug offenses and thefts could face harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences. In some cases, those caught with illegal drugs may be required to undergo rehabilitation or face a maximum of three years in prison.

Voting “no” would mean maintaining the current penalties for drug and theft offenses.

Arcadia Mayor Michael Cao attended the press conference and publicly expressed his support for Proposal 36, stating that it is crucial for community safety.

Former Arcadia Mayor and current city council member Paul Cheng also voiced strong support for the proposal. He noted, “We must take a firm stance against the escalating crime within our community. Proposal 36 provides us with stronger legal tools to hold repeat offenders accountable and protect our businesses and residents. As a member of the Arcadia City Council, I wholeheartedly support any measures that can effectively reduce crime and ensure the safety of our community. We cannot allow criminal activities to go unpunished; we must create a safer living environment for our next generation.”

Debbie Thomas, a representative from the Los Angeles Police Protective League, added, “As law enforcement officers, we have seen firsthand the serious impacts these crimes have on store owners, the public, and our own officers.”

Proposal 36 has now become a focal point of discourse in several Southern California communities, with voters set to make their final decision in the upcoming November elections.