The Three Strikes Law

The Three Strikes Law and Drugs

Under the Three Strikes law, which took effect in March, 1994, people with a felony conviction who have a previous felony conviction are subject to severe punishment. Anyone with a previous conviction faces twice the term order by law, and must serve 80% of it. People with two previous felony convictions, however, face life in prison, with no possibility of parole for at least twenty-five years.

According to the California Department of Corrections, there were 5,887 persons serving “Three Strikes” sentences at the end of 2010. More than 19% are for drug crimes, including 32 people with life for marijuana violations.

A Life Term In Prison Possible

With two strikes in place, the “Three Strikes” law makes a life term in prison possible for offenders who are charged with so much as stealing a lollipop. Past precedents have shown third-strike offenders to have prison time for offenses such as accepting stolen ArmorAll cans, stealing spare tires, or taking bicycles from garages. The “Three Strikes” law punishes crimes of burglary harshly, but it also unfairly punishes those who suffer from the disease of addiction and drug-related crimes. These individuals need medical help through education and treatment, not prison sentences. Despite the inhumanity of the “Three Strikes” law, which is commonly aimed at drug offenders or people with histories of substance abuse, a growing opposition has so far been unsuccessful in amending the laws.

Proposition 36, the “treatment not jail” bill passed into law by California voters, does, however, amend the law. This bill allows those charged with simple possession of drugs to participate in drug rehabilitation treatment programs, rather than suffer a “Three Strikes” penalty, if the drug possession occurred more than five years after the defendant’s release from prison or last felony or violent misdemeanor conviction.

Don’t Fall into Crime Through Addiction, Seek Help

Are you struggling with the hardships of addiction? Moreover, is your addiction bringing about negative consequences? For example, are you facing probation, the loss of work, or further personal problems due to abuse? If so, the Hills is here for you. Take this opportunity to enter life-changing treatment. Our drug rehab facility will help you overcome the challenges of addiction today.

Everyone deserves a second chance away from substance abuse. Therefore, the Hills will guide you on a path to sobriety and overall wellness. Our programs are unique and specific to your circumstances and experiences with addiction. Furthermore, you’ll never face this battle alone at our treatment center. To learn more, contact us today at 844-915-0287. You life you deserve is attainable at the Hills. Seek help today and begin your new, exciting, and sober lifestyle.