VI. Sex Offenders

Incentive Tools:

Effective supervision of sex offenders requires a wide range of conditions. Most importantly, staff must help them to learn their sexual behaviors and manipulation patterns. Three basic criteria for supervising are: 1) establish collateral contacts with family and friends who are aware of the offender's behaviors; 2) control the offender's environment by limiting his access to victims, situations and triggers; and 3) engage the offender in the process of change. In addition to various monitoring systems, including position tracking and urine screens, polygraph tests are becoming more widely used in attempt to detect sex offender behavior.

Under new laws, several other external controls often apply to sex offenders. Certain offenders may be required to submit DNA samples and register with local police for a length or time or for the rest of their lives. Community notification laws may require that a sex offender's residence be disclosed to area residents. Registration and notification usually is required on a periodic basis, and must be verified by staff.

Victims of sex offenders must be kept aware of their offenders' criminal justice status and other information as requested. Staff should ensure that victims are involved in counseling and have an adequate safety plan.