Stockton resident John Johnson pleaded guilty to charges of grand theft under California Penal Code section 487. On September 8, at approximately 11:16 AM, Johnson was caught leaving Kohl's on Trinity Parkway with $398.46 worth of merchandise. In a bold move just under three hours later, he returned to the same location to steal an additional $904 in goods, leading to a combined theft of $1,302.46.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Kibbe Day. Johnson, noted for prior theft-related convictions, was sentenced to one year in prison.

District Attorney Freitas stated, "Enough is enough. The District Attorney's Office is open for business, and paying is no longer an option in San Joaquin County. We won't tolerate thieves treating our local stores like their personal shopping spree. If you shoplift here, you'll pay the price."

**Partnership with the STAART Program**

District Attorney Freitas also emphasized the vital role of community partnerships in combating retail theft, particularly through the STAART (Stockton Takes Action Against Retail Theft) initiative. This program, led by the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce, collaborates with law enforcement, local businesses, and community stakeholders to tackle retail theft head-on, enhancing safety and economic stability in Stockton.

For more information on the STAART Program, please visit: https://stocktonchamber.org/staart/