STATIC-99R Scores, SORNA Leveling, and Recidivism: A Study of Washington State’s Sex Offender Population

• In Event: Treatment of Sex Offenders

Abstract

In 2006 the Adam Walsh Act (AWA) was put into effect, changing the way states manage sex offenders within the community. With the implementation of the AWA, came a new process of sex offender leveling, often referred to as SORNA leveling, which placed offenders in one of three tiers based solely on the seriousness of their offense. Several studies have discovered that SORNA leveling to be ineffective, and suggest the public is best served by the use of risk assessments.

Washington State still utilizes the STATIC-99R risk assessment when determining registration level for sex offenders in the community. In an effort to determine which method is most accurate (SORNA leveling or STATIC-99R) in predicting recidivism, the authors will explore the effectiveness of SORNA leveling and the STATIC-99R by comparing STATIC-99R scores to what would be an offender’s SORNA level (obtained using criminal history records). These scores and levels will then be compared to recidivism data in order to determine which, if either, is more effective in predicting recidivism.

Our presentation will be focused on the results obtained, as well as areas for improvement within the field of sex offender management. Moreover, future directions for Washington State’s policies will be discussed.

Authors

• Leah R. Fisher, Washington State Statistical Analysis Center

• Matthew Landon, Washington State Statistical Analysis Center

• Thea Mounts, Washington State Statistical Analysis Center

• Jeffrey M. Landon, Washington State Department of Corrections