How A Sex Offender Risk Assessment Can Help The Authorities To Protect The Public

By Linda Ruiz


Sexual offences are reprehensive and most level headed people react with revulsion and anger when they hear or read about it. The authorities view such offences in a very serious light and those convicted can expect severe sentences. When those convicted of these crimes are considered for parole, it is important to determine the likelihood that they will commit similar offences. That is why a sex offender risk assessment is first performed.

The evaluation is performed to determine the threat posed by the accused. In many cases it is also used to determine whether the accused were cognizant of his actions. In some cases, for example, the accused suffers from a psychological disorder that diminishes his ability to make decisions or to distinguish between actions that are legal or illegal. The evaluation is particularly important when the accused is still a juvenile.

The results of the evaluation are routinely used in determining whether a convicted criminal can be considered for parole. If parole is approved, the evaluation is also used to consider the type of supervision the paroled person will require and even the conditions of the parole. The outcomes of the report also play an important role in determining the type of sentence that will be ordered by the court.

When the authorities assess a case of sexual delinquency their first and most important priority is to make sure that the interests and safety of the community is the main concern. In some cases the name of the offender is released to the community but in other cases it is deemed unnecessary or that such an action may endanger the safety of the convict himself.

Evaluations are not only performed when the delinquent is first arrested and tried. Repeat evaluations take place periodically. This is because the authorities need to be sure that the specific case is managed properly. The purpose of periodic evaluations is to give the authorities an idea of the emotional stability, level of compliance with the punishment and general progress made by the person concerned.

Evaluations are performed by using a variety of approaches. The most important part is to determine whether the convict is likely to commit a similar offence. The success of rehabilitation and treatment programs also need to be assessed from time to time. There are also mental evaluations to establish whether the convict can benefit from therapy or even medical interventions.

The importance with which these evaluations are viewed is reflected in the fact that a variety of professionals are employed to produce the final report. Experts in psychiatry, behavioral science, social work and correctional rehabilitation are routinely asked to provide their input. Over time these evaluations have proven to be extremely accurate and they have helped the courts and other authorities to deal with each case individually and intelligently.

Public reactions to sexual offences are among the most emotionally charged and often cause fear, outrage and a demand for revenge. However, the justice system must operate according to the rules. Every accused is deemed innocent until proven guilty. This is why courts rely heavily on professional evaluations of every accused in a sexual assault case.




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