Three Strikes Law 
Christian Science Monitor: State Re-thinks Three-strikes Law
The Christian Science Monitor explained how California's three-strikes controversy was nationally significant: "If Californians were to allow judges more discretion in the sentencing of three-timers, their decision could be felt in about two dozen other states that enacted similar three strikes laws over the past 13 years." (February 28, 2006)
60 Minutes II: Three Strikes: Penal Overkill in California?
The three strikes law has been hotly contested for years, and in 2003, the controversy made it to the U.S. Supreme Court. 60 Minutes II explains the history of the law and why some argue that it violates constitutional law. (July 9, 2003)
CNN: Supreme Court Upholds Long Sentences Under Three-Strikes-You're-Out Law
As CNN explains, the court was sharply divided over whether or not three strikes laws amounted to "cruel and unusual punishment." (March 5, 2005)
California Legislative Analyst's Office: Three Strikes
The California's Legislative Analyst's office reported on the impact of the three strikes legislation ten years after it was implemented. This report details "legal milestones" in the three strikes law and explains in detail how the law has influenced California's prison population. The report also includes data on differences in "offense categories" of second- and third-offenders. (October 2005)
San Francisco Chronicle: A case for California prison reform
This opinion piece argues for sentencing reform in California and calls the three strikes law "rigidly constructed." (December 26, 2006)
Institute for Governmental Studies: Proposition 66: Limitations on Three Strikes Law
The Institute for Governmental Studies at the University of California, Berkeley, posted comprehensive information about the history of the three strikes law and includes a reading list. (December 2004)
TOP OF PAGE
TELL A FRIEND
