The new three strikes law is now operative

The new three strikes law is now operative. It is not as strong as I wanted, but still should lead to the worst criminals not getting out so quickly.

There are 43 offences (serious violent and sexual) that can cause a strike. How the strikes work:

• 1st – warning given if sentence is at least 12 months imprisonment
• 2nd – final warning given if sentence is at least 24 months imprisonment. No parole for sentence unless it is murder in which case the non-parole period is 17 years (of 15 if plead guilty).
• 3rd – if the sentence would normally be at least 24 months, then it is the maximum sentence for that offence (or 80% if they plead guilty). If manslaughter then a 10 year sentence (8 if plead guilty). If murder then a non parole period of 20 years (18 if plead guilty)

The normal manifestly unjust exception applies.