Three strikes offences

These tables include information on people sentenced for serious violent offences which are subject to warnings or maximum sentences under the Sentencing Act 2002. The process covered by sections 86A - 86I of the Act is commonly known as "three strikes".

Stage-1 offence ('first strike') - a first warning is issued when a person aged 18 or over at the time of a qualifying offence, and who does not have any previous warnings, is convicted of that offence. Once the person has received a first warning, it stays on their record for good unless their conviction is overturned. Stage-2 offence ('second strike') - a final warning is issued if that person is subsequently convicted of another qualifying offence. They receive a final warning and, if sentenced to imprisonment, will serve that sentence in full without the possibility of parole. The first and final warnings will stay on the person's record. Stage-3 offence ('third strike') - on conviction of a third or subsequent qualifying offence the court must impose the maximum penalty for the offence, unless the court considers that would be manifestly unjust.