Kenneth Matthews Arraigned Under New Prop 36 Retail Theft Law
(Woodland, CA) – On December 26, 2024, Kenneth Matthews was arraigned in Yolo County on felony charges under California’s new voter-initiative law, Proposition 36, which targets repeat offenders of retail theft. Prop 36, enacted on December 18, 2024, enhances penalties for individuals with multiple theft-related convictions. Matthews faces charges for violating California Penal Code § 666.1, Retail Theft with Two or More Prior Convictions, along with an enhancement for committing a new felony while out on bail under Penal Code § 12022.1(b). Additional factors in aggravation related to his criminal history were also noted. A preliminary hearing is set for January 14, 2025, in Department 10.
Matthews was arrested on December 20, 2024, during a retail theft enforcement operation conducted by the California Highway Patrol’s Valley Division at a Target store in Woodland. He was apprehended after attempting to leave the store with unpaid merchandise. A record check revealed Matthews had ten prior qualifying convictions for theft-related offenses, elevating the current charge to a felony. At the time of his arrest, Matthews was also out on bail for two separate felony cases involving thefts.
While the court determined his bail was initially set at $25,000, a request to increase it to $50,000 was denied. District Attorney Jeff Reisig emphasized the importance of accountability for repeat offenders, stating, “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, 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.”
