"They're Locking Up My Toothpaste!" Al Sharpton Laments NYC Crime Surge, Calls For Crackdown

The Rev. Al Sharpton is calling on New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a former police captain, to address the city's spike in crime, calling the situation "out of control."

"In fairness to Eric, he's only been mayor five weeks," Sharpton said Wednesday during an appearance on MSNBC's "Morning Joe." "But even as a fan of him: Eric, they're locking up my toothpaste."

Sharpton's comment referred to reports that New York-area pharmacies and convenience stores have begun to place low-cost items, even toothpaste, in locked cases to prevent theft. Major crime increased 38.5 percent in January, Adams' first month in office, compared to the same period last year, according to a NYPD report.

An alleged shoplifter has been caught on tape appearing to steal 10 steaks from NYC Trader Joe's. I joined MSNBC to speak on the need for public safety and to address criminal justice concerns.#MorningJoe pic.twitter.com/bWrNC8d8rQ

— Reverend Al Sharpton (@TheRevAl) February 9, 2022

"I mean, we're talking about basic stuff here," Sharpton said. "I'm like, what did I miss that we now have to lock up toothpaste?"