Assembly set to OK mandatory jail time for shoplifters

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MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Judges would be required to sentence habitual shoplifters to at least 180 days behind bars under a Republican-authored bill the state Assembly was poised to take up Thursday.

Under current Wisconsin law, the severity of a shoplifting offense varies from a misdemeanor to a felony depending on the value of the merchandise stolen. Punishments vary from nine months to 10 years behind bars. Under the bill, judges would be required to sentence anyone convicted of a third or subsequent shoplifting offense within five years to at least 180 days behind bars.

The bill’s chief sponsors, Sen. Duey Stroebel and Rep. Janel Brandtjen, argue mandatory sentences will deter shoplifters and send a a strong anti-crime message. Opponents, including the state public defender’s office and the Wisconsin Counties Association, counter that the legislation will do little to deter crime and lead to overcrowded jails.

The Assembly was set to vote on the bill during a floor session Thursday afternoon. The Senate passed the bill on Tuesday. Assembly approval would send the proposal to Gov. Tony Evers.