DE HB297

Removes the mandatory minimum sentence requirement for habitual criminal offenders (fourth or subsequent felony conviction) when the 4th felony is a violent felony as defined in Delaware Code § 4201(c)

Court retains discretion to impose sentences up to life imprisonment for habitual criminals, but is no longer bound by the statutory maximum penalty of the underlying offense

Sentences imposed under this section remain non-suspendable and must be served entirely in a Level V custodial institution without probation or parole benefits, except for provisions under §§ 4205(h), 4217, 4381, and 4382

Applies to life sentences (served without any good time reduction) and sentences of less than life imprisonment