How do 'three strikes laws' typically influence sentencing?

Three strikes laws typically influence sentencing by imposing mandatory minimum sentences for individuals who have been convicted of multiple serious offenses. These laws are designed to deter repeat offenders by establishing a framework where, after a certain number of felony convictions, the individual faces significantly increased sentences, often including life sentences without the possibility of parole.

The essence of these laws is to provide a strong, structured response to habitual offenders, aiming to reduce crime and enhance public safety. This influence on sentencing is seen as a way to ensure that those who continue to commit serious crimes despite previous convictions face harsher penalties, which reflects a policy choice to prioritize the community’s safety over leniency for repeat offenders. This approach contrasts with the other options, which either suggest a reduction in severity or greater judicial discretion, neither of which aligns with the intent and mechanics of three strikes laws.