NCJ Number
163465
Date Published
1996
Length
20 pages
Annotation
As three strikes laws have gained popularity, there has been a growing debate about the effect of these laws on the correctional system; the laws pose enormous potential challenges to prisons and jails on several levels.
Abstract
If the list of "strikeable" offenses is quite broad and the laws are faithfully applied to most eligible offenders, the effect on jails and prisons will be immediate and substantial. Conversely, if the laws are narrowly worded and/or provisions are not applied to most offenders who meet the criteria for a three strikes sentence, the effect will be minimal. Related to both jails and prisons, correctional officials have expressed concern about the effect of long-term offenders on facility management. Prison officials face a dual problem: (1) three strikes offenders represent a high management risk population because they have no incentive to conform to a facility's disciplinary regime; and (2) the need for low-security facilities with appropriate medical services will increase as inmates age and become less of a security problem. For jails, the problem is primarily limited to the additional need for high-security pretrial beds. Recent trends in prison admissions, length of stay, and population growth are reviewed. Current sentencing initiatives are described that pertain to mandatory minimum sentences and truth in sentencing statutes. Three strikes laws in Washington, California, and other States are compared. 10 references, 3 notes, 5 tables, and 3 figures