Three strikes laws keep repeat offenders behind bars longer, and California数据显示 recidivism dropped 12% since 1994, yet prison costs ballooned. Opponents argue they punish minor crimes too harshly and fill cells with nonviolent offenders. I believe mandatory minimums do more harm than good because they strip judges of discretion in cases where circumstances vary widely. But then again, repeat burglars often escalate to violent crimes—should society risk that to be compassionate?