Assessing the Collateral Consequences of SORN and Residency Restriction Laws on Employment for RSOs.

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

Registered sex offenders (RSOs) throughout the United States are faced with overcoming the collateral consequences of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification (SORN) and residency restriction laws, which has effected their housing, employment and social support needs. Previous literature has focused on these collateral consequences, but little research has been done regarding RSOs employment or lack thereof and the collateral consequences it has had on them and society. The data was collected from 188 RSOs in Ohio pertaining to their employment obstacles using a disproportionate stratified sample technique. Preliminary results indicate that RSOs have had difficulties in obtaining and/or maintaining employment due to their RSO status. The results also indicated that half of the sample was below the federal poverty line. Consequently, the lack of employment has forced them to rely on family members and various government assistance programs to provide for their basic needs. Further findings and policy implications for employment of RSOs will be discussed.

Authors

• Shawn Rolfe, University of Louisville

• Richard Tewksbury, University of Louisville