(Woodland, CA) – On December 26, 2024, Kenneth Matthews was arraigned on felony charges under the new laws created by California’s voter-initiative, Prop 36. Aimed at addressing brazen repeat offenders of retail theft, Prop 36 went into effect December 18, 2024. Matthews is charged with a felony violation of California Penal Code, § 666.1, Retail Theft with Two or More Prior Convictions, an enhancement for committing a new felony while out on bail, under California Penal Code, § 12022.1(b), along with factors in aggravation related to the crime and his criminal history. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 14, 2025, at 9am in Dept. 10.
Matthews was arrested on December 20, 2024, during a retail theft blitz operation, conducted by the California Highway Patrol’s Valley Division, at Target in Woodland. Matthews was stopped as he exited the store with unpaid merchandise and arrested after a record-check revealed that Matthews has ten qualifying convictions, making the conduct a felony offense. Matthews was also currently out on bail in two other felony cases involving numerous thefts, including retail theft. Prior to his arraignment it was established that his $25k bail should have been $50k, but a request that the Court increase his bail was denied.
District Attorney Jeff Reisig said, “Retail theft is a serious problem, and for too long thieves knew there would be little to no consequences regardless of how many times they stole. California voters have spoken by an overwhelming majority, passing Prop 36 by about 70%, demanding change and accountability for repeat theft offenders. In Yolo County, repeat offenders like this will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law to help ensure Yolo County is a safe and pleasant place to live, work, and shop.”