August 31, 2022
Media Relations Division
213-257-2000
Media@da.lacounty.gov

California Supreme Court Agrees to Hear District Attorney Gascón’s Three Strikes Law Challenge

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón said that he is encouraged by a California Supreme Court decision today to allow a petition for review challenging the application of the state’s Three Strikes law.

“We’re pleased that the California Supreme Court agreed to hear our challenge to the automatic imposition of the Three Strikes law,” District Attorney Gascón said. “This law, which is now 28 years old, has caused tremendous harm to our communities. We believe we can have accountability without the harshest of punishments. We will continue to fight for a more just system for victims and the accused.”

District Attorney Gascón appealed a lower court ruling that sought to block a directive he issued when he was sworn into office from having prosecutors allege prior strike allegations in criminal cases.

District Attorney Gascón cites research that shows longer prison sentences do not result in increased public safety and the state’s Three Strikes Law is outdated and disproportionately affect marginalized communities.

Additionally, the California Constitution gives discretion to district attorneys to determine what charges to bring and which sentencing enhancements to allege.