San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Reminds Residents of Prop 36 Consequences
New Law Brings Enhanced Sentencing and New Charges
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is continuing to remind residents of the effects of the recently passed Proposition 36, also known as The Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act. This comes after a man was arrested on narcotics possession charges early Friday morning.
What is Prop 36?
Prop 36 was passed by voters by a wide margin in November and went into effect on December 18. The legislation includes several new charges, including enhanced sentencing and statutes that can prevent certain offenders from being cited and released prior to their court appearance.
Law Enforcement Efforts to Educate the Public
To get the word out about the consequences of Prop 36, law enforcement agencies across the region have been using various methods. One such example is a recent video released by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, which shows suspects discussing the new law from the back of a police car.
Recent Incident
A more recent incident involving the new consequences of Prop 36 occurred just before 9 a.m. Friday when a 54-year-old Apple Valley resident was contacted by deputies in the area of Bear Valley Road and Algonquin Road. John Michael Laughlin was found to be in possession of illegal narcotics and arrested. He was booked into the High Desert Detention Center on drug possession charges with previous convictions and traffic warrants. He is being held in lieu of $30,000 bail.
Investigation Ongoing
Anyone with any information about this investigation is asked to contact Deputy E. Natty with Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station at (760) 240-7400 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME (27463) or leave the information on the We-Tip website.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Prop 36?
Prop 36 is a new law passed by California voters in November and went into effect on December 18. It includes new charges and enhanced sentencing. - What are the consequences of Prop 36?
The consequences of Prop 36 include enhanced sentencing and new charges that can prevent certain offenders from being cited and released prior to their court appearance. - How do law enforcement agencies educate the public about Prop 36?
Law enforcement agencies, including the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, are using various methods to educate the public, including releasing videos and releasing information to the media. - How can I report information about an investigation?
You can contact Deputy E. Natty with Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station at (760) 240-7400 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Callers wishing to remain anonymous can use the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME (27463) or leave the information on the We-Tip website.
