Sex Offender Program

The Sex Offender Program utilizes a mandatory specialized education program for sex offenders. The topics addressed include treatment expectations, issues of basic human sexuality, societal role models, social stereotyping, the development of sexual deviancy, and the impact of sexual abuse on victims.

Spouses, family members, and friends are encouraged to participate. The class is mandatory for any significant other being considered as a chaperone for the offender and as part of the reunification process. Resources for Spanish speakers are available. Probation and Surveillance Officers also attend the classes.

An assessment of the offender's payment ability may deem him/her eligible for financial assistance. This assists the defendant as s/he progresses through a difficult, intensive, highly structured program consisting of primary group treatment for a period of two years or more, which is then followed by involvement in ongoing maintenance groups. Throughout their involvement in the program, the probationer must submit to periodic physiological and psychological testing. Testing validates the veracity of the probationer's statements and works to diminish the use of denial, minimization and rationalization.

Victims and families also benefit from the program by addressing their special needs. This program has special rules and guidelines that must be followed for contact or reunification to occur. Our specialized sex offender officers, working closely with all parties involved, address the needs and issues of the offender, the victim(s) and the families.

Typical Probationer Characteristics

• Sex Offender is on probation
• Current or historical sexual deviancy; e.g., indecent exposure, trespassing, voyeurism, molestation
• Probationer is likely to minimize or deny offense behavior and the need for treatment
• May present self as excessively compliant with probation conditions while engaged in deceptive behaviors
• Resistance to external controls

Program Characteristics

• Utilized by Intensive Probation Supervision and Standard Probation
• Allows for community supervision of incest offenders who typically respond well to treatment
• May avert hands-on offense behaviors from exhibitionists, voyeurs, etc., by teaching intrinsic controls
• Victim services
• Inclusive of family and victim(s) when possible and appropriate
• Generally conducted in a group setting to increase accountability of probationer
• Meet specialized needs of lower functioning probationers
• Team approach fosters integration of internal control
• Professional testing, documentation of progress or lack of progress
• Professional testimony