1) Some have argued that sex offenders seem to be punished more
severely than they should be. For example, upon release from prison,
they may be put on a sex offender list that can be seen by anybody in
the community. Those convicted of murder, burglary, or assault are not
put on a list. When these latter perpetrators complete their
sentences, their punishment ends. By putting sexual predators on sex
offender lists, aren’t we actually extending their sentences? Couldn’t
it be argued that they are being punished more severely?
2) Are there other crimes for which we should post a list that anybody
in the community could log on to? For example, it has been contended
that those who have been convicted of drunk driving should be on a
list. The argument is that since drunk drivers have a high rate of
re-offending, the public should be forewarned by placing drunk drivers
on such lists.
3) What are the drawbacks of placing ex-convicts on lists? How might
this actually prevent an ex-convict from becoming a contributing member
of society in a legitimate occupation?
