Reply #13: Unfortunately....

[varkam]

the descriptions of crimes on state registries are often just the reproduction of the statute that they were convicted of. In other words, there are almost zero details as to the circumstances of their crime.

Also, there is no evidence to suggest that proximity to places like schools increases recidivism rates. There is, however, evidence to suggest that residency restrictions increase recidivism rates via a number of different routes such as homelessness, forcing them onto the edge of town where there are no job opportunities, mental health services, community support, etcetera.

Moreover, I doubt if you would want the general public involved in assessing the risk of specific individuals. The vast majority of people on the registry do not commit another offense, according to the Center for Sex Offender Management - though there are certainly categories of offender that pose higher risks. Unfortunately, your average-joe is not in a position to make that assessment. Risk assessment is usually done through a qualified mental health professional (read: a psychologist that has been trained to work with sex offenders).