Prosecutors began to use discretion with respect to "three-strikes" repeat- offender laws in the 1990s. They became significantly more likely to lower a defendant's charge to a misdemeanor when conviction for the initial felony arrest charge would lead to sentencing under a three-strikes law. Accounting for such behavior is important. Failure to do so can lead to overstating the effects of these laws on average sentencing by almost 30 percent.
Conduct Internet and/or library research to further your knowledge of this topic. Then write a paper that addresses the following questions:
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How does prosecutorial discretion affect the overstating of laws on average sentencing?
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Why did Congress repeal the mandatory federal sentences for drug offenses in 1970?
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How do "Other" crimes cause any estimated difference in classification of three-strikes arrests?
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What ethical concerns are raised because of prosecutorial discretion?