California bishops support proposition to modify 'three strikes' law

Published: 2004-09-30

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (CNS) -- The California Catholic Conference of Bishops, in a statement released Sept. 28, said they support passage of Proposition 66 on the Nov. 2 ballot, which would modify the state's "three strikes" law. The ballot measure would redefine the serious or violent felonies requiring increased sentences under the "three strikes" law. The proposal would also increase the punishment for sex crimes against children. California currently has the toughest "three strikes" law in the nation, passed by the Legislature, signed by former Republican Gov. Pete Wilson and approved by 72 percent of the voters statewide in 1994. Bishop Stephen E. Blaire of Stockton, president of the California Catholic Conference, said in the statement that the bishops believe in "responsibility, accountability and legitimate punishment." Legitimate punishment, he said, should have two clear purposes: protecting society and rehabilitating those who violate the law. Referring to the U.S. bishops' pastoral letter issued in 2000 on "Responsibility, Rehabilitation and Restoration: A Catholic Perspective on Crime and Criminal Justice," the bishop noted: "We will not tolerate the crime and violence that threatens lives and dignity of our sisters and brothers and we will not give up on those who have committed crime and violence in our communities."

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