Feb
26

Massachusetts Changes Classification Standard For Sex Offenders

In a major decision that is likely to fundamentally change the classification of sex offenders in Massachusetts, the Supreme Judicial Court recently struck down the Sex Offender Registry Board’s use of the preponderance of evidence standard in classification hearings. In John Doe No. 380316 vs. Sex Offender Registry Board, 473 Mass. 297 (2015), the court… Continue reading »

Jun
09

Massachusetts Senate Votes To Dramatically Increase Restrictions On Level 2 Sex Offenders

Multiple news outlets are reporting that the Massachusetts State Senate has passed a host of new changes to the Sex Offender Registration Law that would severely ratchet up the registration and public notification requirements for individuals classified as Level 2 or 3 sex offenders. In part, the law would greatly expand the community notification requirements… Continue reading »

Feb
23

Former State Senator James Marzilli Takes A Plea

A judge today sentenced former state Sen. Joseph “Jim” Marzilli to three months in the Billerica House of Correction for his 2008 accosting four women in one day while on official business. Marzilli had been charged with several counts of attempt to commit the crime of indecent assault and battery. Attorney Crouch filed an amicus… Continue reading »

Feb
14

Massachusetts Considering Adding Level 2 Sex Offenders To Internet Registry

The Lowell Sun is reporting about a proposed Massachusetts law that would greatly expand the community notification requirements for Level 2 sex offenders in Massachusetts. In August 2009, a Level-2 sex offender was accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl at Westford’s town beach. The man, who moved from Florida to Westford, was listed on… Continue reading »

Feb
06

A Call To Reason

Despite the urge to clamp down hard on all sexual offenders, evidence supports a more nuanced approach. Since the mid-1990s, legislatures around the country have pursued a continuing and escalating course of action, from registration and community notification laws to civil commitment procedures, targeting individuals who have been convicted of sex-related offenses. From Capitol Hill… Continue reading »