House Republican Press Release

March 24, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Adinolfi Supports “Three Strikes” in Judiciary

Democrats Reject Criminal Justice Reforms Again in Legislative Committee

HARTFORD- State Representative Al Adinolfi (R-Cheshire) expressed disappointment that the legislature’s Judiciary Committee failed to approve a “Three Strikes” measure which would require that a person convicted of a third violent offense, such as rape, murder, or assault would be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.  Adinolfi, who serves on the Judiciary Committee, voted in favor of the measure, however the bill was defeated 25-16.

“The people of Cheshire and the people of Connecticut have made it clear that they want this tougher criminal measure put in place,” said Adinolfi.  “It is disappointing that the majority continues to refuse to take strong, needed action.”

The legislature has debated the enactment of a “Three Strikes” law since a triple homicide in Cheshire rocked that community and the state last summer.  The individuals charged in that case were out on parole.  Members of the victims’ family testified before the Judiciary Committee in favor of the measure.

“Opponents of this measure are saying that they want to preserve judicial discretion in sentencing,” said Adinolfi.  “I believe that if you have gotten to the point where someone is up for a third time on a charge of rape or murder, judicial discretion has already failed twice before in that instance.  By continuing to block this measure, opponents are letting the entire state down.”

Adinolfi vowed to have the proposal brought up again as an amendment on the floor of the House.  “I haven’t given up yet.  Not by a long shot,” he added.

The 2008 regular session of the General Assembly concludes at midnight, Wednesday May 7^th.