NCJ Number
217296
Journal
Journal of Offender Monitoring Volume: 19 Issue: 1 Dated: 2006 Pages: 13-28
Date Published
2006
Length
16 pages
Annotation
Based on a review of research on the effectiveness of various management strategies in reducing sex offender reoffending, this article critiques California's proposed "Jessica's Law," which would increase control over sex offenders released from prison by expanding electronic monitoring and residency restrictions.
Abstract
Among other provisions, Jessica's Law would require lifetime global-positioning-system (GPS) monitoring of registered felon sex offenders released to parole and bar registered sex offenders from living within 2,000 feet of schools and parks. These detailed restrictions on a whole class of offenders would restrict the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation's ability to improve its policies for managing sex offenders on parole. Research shows the value of assessing the reoffending risk of sex offenders on a case-by-case basis, using validated risk-assessment tools. Empirical data indicate that sex offenders are a heterogeneous group, with individuals responding differently to treatment and having varying reoffending patterns. A high percentage of sex offenders have reoffending rates lower than other offenders. Jessica's Law is an over-inclusive remedy for sex offenses that would be very costly and could have unforeseen consequences. In addition to a case-by-case risk assessment for sex offenders released from prison, California should also improve its treatment programs for incarcerated sex offenders. Currently, California is one of a few States with no formal treatment for imprisoned sex offenders. There should also be a focus on improving prevention programs for children and victim services. The research review examines trends in California sex offense data, along with other States with large sex offender populations; the effectiveness of electronic monitoring and residential restrictions in preventing recidivism; and the challenges in implementing expanded electronic monitoring and residential restrictions for sex offenders. 12 tables and 156 notes