Dems can redeem themselves on crime

The surge in retail theft has unexpectedly become Sacramento’s hottest political issue. Last week, Democratic lawmakers attempted to place a measure on the ballot to compete with a tougher anti-crime measure backed by district attorneys and retail stores. After contentious negotiations brought unwanted publicity, Gov. Gavin Newsom and his allies pulled their alternative measure.

The Legislature is, however, moving forward a package of anti-theft bills designed to win back public confidence and address the theft issue.