Jill S. Levenson Content Topic Results

Through this technical report, the researchers provide information on their findings evaluating the effectiveness of sex offender registry and notification policies for reducing sexual violence against women. The report suggested that these policies deterred some first time sex offenses, but had no impact on recidivism. The research was conducted in and reflects outcomes in South Carolina. Key Findings:

The purpose of this study was to examine public perceptions about sex offenders and community protection policies. Data were obtained from a sample of 193 residents in Melbourne, Florida. It was hypothesized that the public holds some inaccurate beliefs about sex offenders, and that there is strong public support for community protection policies. It was found that community members believe that sex offenders have very high recidivism rates, view sex offenders as a homogeneous group with regard to risk, and are skeptical about the benefits of sex offender treatment.

The purpose of this study was to determine to what extent perceptions about sexual offenders are based on empirical evidence or misconceptions.

Levenson argues that there is no evidence that sex offender residency restrictions prevent sex crimes or promote public safety. Rather, Levenson believes that such policies may actually exacerbate offenders' psychosocial stressors and thereby increase the likelihood of reoffending.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the unintended consequences of policies that restrict where sex offenders can live.