Ewing v. California

Ewing v. California (2003) addressed the constitutionality of California's "three strikes" law, which mandates harsher sentences for repeat offenders. Gary Ewing, convicted of stealing golf clubs, received a 25-to-life sentence due to his prior serious felony convictions. Ewing argued this sentencing was cruel and unusual punishment under the Eighth Amendment. The Supreme Court ultimately upheld the sentence, ruling that in his case, the punishment was proportional to the crime. This decision reinforced state laws targeting repeat offenders, highlighting the balance between public safety and individual rights in sentencing.