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Jones denounces 3-strikes changes

Author of law speaks out against Proposition 66 on November ballot

By WIRE REPORTS

STOCKTON -- Bill Jones, the man running for Democratic U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer's seat in the upcoming election, made an appearance in Stockton and urged voters to turn down a ballot initiative that would change the state's three-strikes law.

Jones wrote the law, which keeps repeat felons in prison for 25 years to life. Proposition 66 would change the law so that it counts only violent felonies such as rape or murder.

Proponents of the measure have said the law has sent people to prison for petty crimes like shoplifting.

Jones told supporters at the Rotary Club gathering that the law has helped reduce the state's crime rate while still giving judges and district attorneys the discretion to determine when to send a suspect to prison for life.

While in the club, Jones followed their rules and did not attack Boxer, but once outside, he said she was unfit to be senator.