Sex offenders

Jefferson City News Tribune

Sentiment has been voiced that sexual offenders are being unfairly exposed to the harsh glare of the public eye. We disagree.

Missouri lawmakers in 2004 approved a law that prohibits sexual offenders from living within 1,000 feet of any existing public school, private school or day-care facility. The votes were nearly unanimous -- 158-1 in the House and 31-0 in the Senate.

Cole County prosecutor Bill Tackett recently identified 39 registered sex offenders who live nearer to those facilities than the law allows.

Tackett wants the offenders to show their residency preceded establishment of a school or day care. Failing that, he wants them to move before school begins.

Some people argue this action paints a proverbial scarlet letter on people who have paid their debt to society.

We believe prevention of future victimization deserves a high priority.

First, crimes have consequences. The offenders are listed because they committed criminal acts.

Second, studies have shown that sexual offenders cannot be cured. Some are able to control their impulses, but -- like alcoholics -- a relapse is an ever-present concern.

Third, innocent people -- particularly children -- must be protected. ...

If identifying sexual offenders helps prevent a crime, the effort will have proved worthwhile.