If you qualify as a Violent Career Criminal (VCC) then the State may file a notice to increase your sentence. By entering a plea to such an offense after receiving the notice, you are agreeing that you met the requirements to be sentenced as a Violent Career Criminal and will be sentenced under that law.
Below you will see what VCC requirements includes:
1. The primary felony offense for which you are being sentenced is a felony enumerated in subsection and was committed on or after October 1, 1995, and while you were serving a prison sentence or other commitment imposed as a result of a prior enumerated felony on your last conviction for an enumerated felony or your release from a prison sentence or other commitment imposed within the last 5 years.
2. You have been previously convicted 3 times or more for an offense in this state or like offense in another jurisdiction that is:
- Escape.
- Aggravated child abuse.
- Lewd, lascivious or indecent conduct.
- Aggravated abuse of an elderly person or disabled adult.
- A felony violation of Chapter 790 involving the use or possession of a firearm.
- A forcible felony like
Arson
Burglary
Robbery
Murder
Treason
Carjacking
Kidnapping
Sexual battery
Manslaughter
Aggravated battery
Aircraft piracy
Aggravated stalking
Aggravated assault
Home invasion robbery
Unlawful throwing, placing or discharging of a destructive device or bomb
Any other felony involves the use of violence or threat of physical force against any individual.
3. You have been previously incarcerated in a state or federal prison.
4. You have not received a pardon for any felony or other qualified offense that is necessary for the imposition of a Violent Career Criminal Sentence.