The potential outcomes of registration of predatory sex offenders can have both beneficial and negative effects. The one’s who advocate for the sex offender registration and notification say the laws are effective because it allows the public to become informed when a sexual predator is present in the community, which allows them to take action to protect themselves and their families. It reduces this type of crime because the community is able and more likely to report suspicious behavior of sex offenders. In a survey done by Phillips in 1998, sixty percent of those surveyed said they thought the sex offenders law caused the offenders to act betters because they knew people were watching (Walker, Maddan, …, 2001). In another survey done by law enforcement officers in Washington, they agreed the law had it’s benefits because it provided better community surveillance, helped to create better public awareness, deterred future crimes by the offender, and helped promote child safety however, things could go to far, people sometimes overreact which leads to harassment and embarrassment of sex offenders or their families (Walker, Maddan, …2001).
How do I feel about this practice? Children are a gift from God and should be protected. It is rare anymore to turn on the television or read a newspaper and not see sexual abuse in the headlines, sometimes by parent’s, the one’s who were supposed to protect the child the most. Most of the people who have been in jail for this crime will eventually be returned to our streets and I, personally, would like to know about it. I have a great nephew and 3 great nieces, all under the age of 7. I could not imagine some one taking away their innocence in such a violent way. Although the rate of recidivism is lower than expected for this heinous act, some offenders will repeat their crime. I have looked at the registry in my area and I have customers in my pharmacy that are on it however, I do not treat them any different than anyone else but I do know where they live.
