It’s been ten years since California really got tough on crime. The murder of a young girl by a repeat felon sent shocked voters to the polls where they approved the harshest sentencing law in the country: Three strikes and you’re out. The idea is simple. A criminal convicted of his 3rd felony gets 25 years to life.
This law has put away murderers, rapists and child molesters, but it has also locked up petty thieves, drug dealers and check forgers. Critics point to cases like a man sentenced to 50 years for stealing $150 worth of kids videos, another for stealing a slice of pizza, as signs of the law’s unfairness. Supporters say crime in California is down, and three strikes is the reason.
Guests:
Vincent Schiraldi, Justice Policy Institute
Charles Hobson, Criminal Judicial Legal Foundation
Joe Klaas, Citizens Against Violent Crime
Mike Reynolds, co-sponsor of Three Strikes
Pam Martinez, convicted under Three Strikes.