Criminal Justice Or Social Science-Related Policy Student

Criminal Justice or Social Science-Related Policy Student’s Name

The policy chosen for analysis in this capstone paper is the Three-Strikes Law, a legislative measure enacted in the 1990s that imposes strict penalties on individuals convicted of at least three serious crimes. Originally aimed at reducing recidivism and lowering crime rates by removing repeat offenders from society, this law has subsequently become a subject of controversy due to unintended negative consequences. Among these are increased prison populations, higher correctional costs, and systemic racial disparities, particularly affecting minority communities. The evaluation of this policy thus necessitates a thorough investigation of its effectiveness in achieving crime reduction and its broader social implications, including how it may be reformed to enhance fairness and justice.

Understanding why this policy is of particular interest involves examining its intersection with critical social justice issues. The Three-Strikes Law exemplifies how criminal justice policies, even those intended for deterrence, can produce secondary effects that exacerbate inequalities. Race and prejudice play significant roles in sentencing disparities, with minorities disproportionately affected by mass incarceration driven by such legislative frameworks. Analyzing the law offers insight into systemic biases and potential avenues for reform to promote equitable treatment within the justice system.

Furthermore, the law's impact on incarceration rates and public safety raises important questions about the balance of punitive versus rehabilitative approaches to criminal justice. Evidence suggests that the Three-Strikes Law has not achieved the intended reduction in crime but has contributed to an unsustainable increase in prison populations. California’s recent policy adjustments—excluding non-violent offenses from triggering a third strike—highlight ongoing debates about the necessity of reform and alternative strategies that emphasize rehabilitation over punishment. Investigating these reform efforts can provide valuable lessons on how to align criminal justice policies with contemporary goals of social equity and effective crime prevention.

Additionally, the fiscal implications of the law are substantial. The costs associated with housing aging inmates and managing overcrowded prisons place significant strain on state budgets. This economic burden prompts critical evaluation of resource allocation, questioning whether punitive measures are the most cost-effective means of ensuring public safety. Instead, investment in preventive measures, community programs, and restorative justice practices might offer more sustainable solutions.

Thesis Statement

The Three-Strikes Law, originally implemented to deter repeat offenders, has instead contributed to mass incarceration, racial disparities in sentencing, and the overburdening of the criminal justice system, demonstrating the need for comprehensive reforms that prioritize rehabilitation and fairness over punitive measures.

Keywords for Research

Mass incarceration, mandatory minimum sentences, racial disparities in sentencing, recidivism, criminal justice reform, sentencing disparities, public safety, rehabilitation, systemic bias, incarceration costs.

References

• Bird, M., Gill, O., Lacoe, J., Pickard, M., Raphael, S., & Skog, A. (2022). Three Strikes in California. Escholarship.org.
• Oseguera, P. (2021). California’s Three Strikes Law (TSL): A Review of the Literature, Policy Implications, and a Proposal for Dismantling TSL Legislation.
• Alexandria, J. (2019). The impact of three strikes laws on incarceration rates. Journal of Criminal Justice, 65, 101-112.
• California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. (2020). Annual report on incarceration statistics. Sacramento, CA: CDCR.
• Davis, L. M. (2018). Racial disparities in sentencing: An analysis of mandatory minimum laws. Justice Quarterly, 35(4), 567-589.
• Miller, T., & daniels, R. (2020). Evaluating the effectiveness of three strikes policies on crime rates. Criminal Justice Policy Review, 31(2), 123-138.
• Tonry, M. (2017). The politics of sentencing reform. American Journal of Criminal Justice, 42(3), 417-434.
• Walker, S. (2015). Mass incarceration and public safety: Clarifying the connection. Public Safety Journal, 9(1), 45-57.
• Western, B. (2018). Punishment and inequality in America. New York, NY: Russell Sage Foundation.
• Zimmerman, L., & Schiraldi, V. (2019). Rethinking criminal justice: Alternatives to incarceration. Policy Review, 28, 89-104.