[hncommenter13]

That is how the law works after it was amended in 2012.[1] From the time of adoption in 1994 until 2012, even relatively minor crimes could result in a life sentence.[2]

[1] https://www.nytimes.com/2015/02/27/us/california-convicts-ar...

[2] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/60-archives-steven-bell-the-bic...