Restricted Group Speaks Up, Saying Sex Crime Measures Go Too Far

Title: New York Times: Restricted Group Speaks Up, Saying Sex Crime Measures Go Too Far

Category: Community, Law

Level: National

Concerning: A problem/issue that individuals/families face.

Why is this important/how does this affect individuals/families? The attempt made by registered sex offenders to lessen the punishments and penalties imposed regarding sex crimes will have a negative affect on their victims and the community. It is also important in that it could potentially change legislation regarding sex crimes, which would affect all registered sex offenders and future sex offenders.

My Views: When I first read the title of this article, I thought it was a joke. The “restricted group” the title mentions is referring to a group of registered sex offenders who believe local and state governments have imposed penalties for sex crimes that are too harsh. One of the main advocates within this group is Mr. Neely, who plead guilty to multiple counts of sexual indecency with a child. I’m sorry, but how could anyone in their right mind take a man who has been convicted of a sex crime with a child be taken seriously..? Regardless, Mr. Neely and other attendees of “Justice for All: A Conference to Reform Sexual Offense Laws” are hoping to convince judges, lawmakers, and the general public that penalties and laws aimed at sex offenders “are unconstitutional and ineffective”. That statement alone is ridiculous. This large group of men (and a few women) have been charged with sex crimes, many of which involving children. I strongly support the current laws in place for convicted sex offenders, especially in those cases involving children. Once an individual has committed a sexual act with a child, it is only logical for that individual to be barred from living anywhere near parks, playgrounds, schools, or any other facilities that children frequent. The fact that a large group of registered sex offenders are fighting to reverse that barring is sickening. These measures have been put in place to protect innocent children, and registered sex offenders are attempting to reverse that effort. These registered sex offenders seem to want sympathy for having to live a restricted life. However, have they forgotten what put them in that situation in the first place?