California Not Rethinking Sentencing Laws Unlike Other States
New York has just decided to put an end to the seriously harsh Rockefeller laws designed to get tough on drug offenses. Other states are reconsidering mandatory minimum sentences and release procedures. Some of these most recent re-evaluations are due to a failing economy. Some, however, are based on the fact that many of these laws are ineffective in preventing future crimes.
Te revolving door of the criminal justice system doesn’t stop and these harsh sentences seem to have little effect on recidivism. However, California law makers don’t think that’s a sufficient reason for change and have no plans on altering anything about the states tough sentencing laws.
Our state has gained national publicity for the extreme 3 strikes laws. Three felony convictions can land you in prison for 25 years to life. It doesn’t matter if your 3rd charge was for stealing golf clubs at a country club or shoplifting. In our overcrowded and failing prisons, one-third of all inmates are “three strikes” offenders.
This article from NewsDay points out how states are changing their methods but California is resisting that forward movement. Despite having to release inmates because we cannot afford proper medical care for them, the state seems to be content with continuing on this system that will only continue to grow.
Felony charges are serious crimes and there is no doubt that, if convicted, a felon should face the appropriate sentence. I don’t know of many people that would say 25 years to life is appropriate in many of the cases that fall under this law.
Whether you are facing your first criminal charge or your third felony, you likely know you may be serving some time. This prospect is particularly frightening if you are facing serious felony charges. Whatever the case, we want to hear about it. Call to discuss your case today.
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