Wisconsin Sex Offenders Face Serious Challenges and Stigmas for Life

 Posted on June 03, 2016 in Criminal Defense

Convicted sex offenders come in many shapes and forms. Some were teens, just barely of legal age, who made a poor decision. Others have been convicted of violent crimes. But all of them face the same fate once they serve their time: stigmas and challenges for life. And in the state of Wisconsin, that can extend right down to not having a job or a place to call home.

Conviction Leads to Lifelong Issues

Once convicted and released, Wisconsin sex offenders must register on the state’s sex offender list. This list is monitored by local law enforcement, who will often send out a media release when an offender moves into the area. That information, which includes the exact address of the offender, is often then reported by local media. Citizens and employers can also view the registry online, which can severely impact their employment options, living conditions, and ability to function within the community.

Despite Stigma, Sex Offender Recidivism Rates Low

Sex offenders often have the lowest recidivism rates of all convicted felons - between 4.9 percent and 2.6 percent, depending on the data used. Those rates have also been on the decline over the last several years, possibly because of the improvement of the mandatory rehabilitation programs offenders must complete. So why, then, are they being completely banned from living in entire communities in the state of Wisconsin?

Bans and Homelessness Plague Wisconsin Sex Offenders

In addition to the added difficulties that sex offenders experience in obtaining employment, many are also facing difficulties finding a place to live. In fact, there are whole communities that have driven out offenders and placed bans on those looking to reside there. Many end up homeless (approximately 3,000 in Wisconsin), with no place to call home, which can actually cause more issues in safety monitoring than if the offender had a permanent residence. But hysteria and fear continue to be an issue that forces offenders to live like social outcasts, despite having already served time for the crime they were convicted of.

Arrested on Sexual Assault Charges? Get the Defense You Need

No two situations are exactly the same, but those who are being held on sexual assault charges often have the most to lose. So if you or someone you love has recently been arrested and is facing charges, it is critical that you contact a skilled Milwaukee criminal defense attorney now. Committed, dedicated, and aggressive, the experienced attorneys of Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP can offer you the quality representation you deserve. Call 414-271-1440 and schedule your consultation today.

Source:

http://www.fdlreporter.com/story/news/crime/2016/04/15/wisconsin-sex-offenders-branded-life/82303874/