Which of the following best describes the goal of the "three strikes law"?

The goal of the "three strikes law" is primarily aimed at deterring crime by imposing harsher penalties on repeat offenders. This legal framework establishes a guideline where individuals convicted of a third serious crime face significantly increased penalties, often including lengthy prison sentences. The rationale behind this law is that by increasing the severity of punishment for repeat offenses, it serves as a deterrent not only to the individuals who have previously committed crimes but also to potential offenders who might consider engaging in criminal behavior.

The law attempts to send a clear message that persistent offending will not be tolerated and that severe consequences will follow those who continue to violate the law. This objective aligns with the broader goals of enhancing public safety and reducing crime rates by reducing the likelihood of reoffending.

Other options, while related to different aspects of criminal justice, do not capture the essence of the "three strikes law." For instance, the focus on rehabilitation through educational programs or minimizing incarceration does not typically align with the punitive nature of the three strikes legislation, which prioritizes punishment over rehabilitation. Similarly, reducing sentencing disparities is not a primary concern of the law, which instead embeds strict guidelines that do not account for the nuances of individual cases.