Electronic monitor

When getting tough backfires

June 12, 2007

When a child is abducted and killed, or a young woman is brutally raped, lawmakers scramble to crack down on sex offenders. Sometimes, the new laws actually make things worse.

  • Sex offender noticeSex offender laws have unintended consequences
    Lawmakers react when sex crimes make the news. But do those laws aimed at cracking down on sex offenders improve public safety, or create a false sense of security?June 18, 2007
  • Girl on a swingLaws based more on myth than fact
    Across the country, state lawmakers are getting tough on sex offenders. Researchers say too often, lawmakers depend on myth, not fact, when they pass new restrictions on sex offenders.June 19, 2007
  • Parents of murdered childrenA better approach to sex offender policy
    Across the country, state lawmakers are getting tough on sex offenders. Is it the best way to improve public safety?June 18, 2007
  • Mothers talk about their sons
    Two mothers of teenage boys who were convicted for having consensual sex with an underage girlfriend share their thoughts about the treatment of their sons.June 12, 2007
  • The state's report card on sex offender treatment
    At the direction of the Minnesota Legislature, a working group of experts was convened in 2005 to develop statewide sex offender management standards. The group issued its final report early in 2007. Here are some excerpts.June 12, 2007

MPR News
Radio

Listen Now

On Air

BBC World Service

Schedule

Shortcuts
Hourly Newscast
Hosts
Station Map

Other Radio Streams from MPR

Classical MPR
Radio Heartland

Services

Become a Sponsor

In The Spotlight

  • Sound Learning

    Looking for ways to ensure your students are doing quality research from credible sources? Sound Learning is a launching point to Minnesota Public Radio's content on the Web.

  • The Current Music Blog

    Your daily note for good music, news and pop culture. With attempted jokes.