Question

Which of the following statements describes a negative outcome of "three-strikes" laws? Select all that apply.

(A) They reinforce racial bias in punishment by concentrating on street crimes and drug offenses.
B They remove repeat offenders from society.
Legislation has increased punishment disparities.
Prosecutors are given the rights in some states to determine whether the third strike should be charged as a felony or
misdemeanor.

Answer 1

Three-strikes laws have negative outcomes such as reinforcing racial bias, leading to potential disparities in punishment, and contributing to prison overcrowding.

Step-by-step explanation:

Three-strikes laws have several negative outcomes:

1. They reinforce racial bias in punishment by concentrating on street crimes and drug offenses, which disproportionately affect lower income, Black, and Hispanic people.
2. Prosecutors in some states have the power to determine whether the third strike should be charged as a felony or misdemeanor, leading to potential disparities in punishment.
3. These laws remove repeat offenders from society, which can contribute to prison overcrowding and put a strain on state budgets.