Introduction

It has been four years since Fresno businessman Mike Reynolds, who lost his daughter to a random senseless act of violence, led a criminal justice revolution in California called "Three Strikes and You're Out." The adoption of "Three Strikes" signaled a salient shift away from the failed policies of the 1960s and the 1970s that contributed to the highest crime rate in the state's history.

"Three Strikes" was implemented before a chorus of nay sayers and critics, but now after four years of historic reductions in crime, their complaints are becoming increasingly drowned out by the undeniable reality that Californians are the safest they have been in the past 30 years. This report documents why we are safer, largely due to "Three Strikes," and reveals why the mantras of "Three Strikes" critics have largely been unfulfilled prophecies.

The initial intent of "Three Strikes" was to prevent serious and violent habitual offenders from being able to repeat their criminal behavior. According to the ballot pamphlet, "It is the intent of the People of California in enacting this measure to ensure longer prison sentences and greater punishment for those who commit a felony and have been previously convicted of serious and/or violent felony offenses."¹

"Three Strikes" was signed into law by Governor Pete Wilson and became effective on March 7, 1994.² It was also passed by the people in November 1994 as Proposition 184 by a 71.85% to 28.15% margin.³

¹"California Ballot Pamphlet, General Election, November 8, 1994;" Secretary of State's Office; Page 64.
²"Wilson Signs Three Strikes Bill." Sacramento Bee March 8, 1994; A-1.
³Statement of Vote. November 1994 Secretary of State's Office.

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