What is the “Three Strikes” law?

The "Three Strikes" law is a policy adopted in New York that requires people convicted of violent offenses to receive longer prison sentences than those who have committed less serious crimes. If a person has been convicted of three or more violent offenses, then they are deemed to have committed a "third strike" and will receive an extended sentence of up to life in prison. This law is based on the notion that those who have already committed multiple violent offenses are more likely to commit further violent acts in the future, and longer prison sentences will act as a deterrent and help to protect the public. The Three Strikes law in New York was passed in 1995 and is considered one of the toughest sentencing laws in the country. It applies to offenses like felony murder, kidnapping, and aggravated assault. It does not, however, apply to cases involving drug offenses or non-violent offenses. The Three Strikes law has been controversial. Because the law can result in lengthy sentences, some people feel that it is overly harsh and not reflective of the offender’s underlying circumstances. Additionally, some worry that the law could lead to wrongful convictions and that the courts are not applying the law evenly. Despite these concerns, the Three Strikes law is in place in many states, including New York, and has had an impact on violent crime rates.

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What is the “Three Strikes” law?

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