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1. If this sex offender is so dangerous, why is he/she allowed in the community?

Most Sexually Violent Predators (SVPs) are sentenced to lengthy prison terms, although some SVPs can be released into the community on probation, directly upon sentencing, or on parole, following incarceration and sex offense-specific mental health treatment at the Department of Corrections (DOC). In determining an SVPs risk to the community, the Court or Parole Board considers the professional recommendation of the probation officer or DOC case manager, and the assessment of sex offense-specific mental health evaluators or treatment providers. If the SVP is determined to be manageable in the community, a recommendation may be made that he/she be supervised by probation or parole. In all cases, the Court or Parole Board must make the determination regarding the placement of an SVP. 

SVPs represent a small proportion of all convicted sex offenders. Approximately 65% of all convicted sex offenders in Colorado receive a direct placement to the community from the Court. In Colorado, many SVPs are subject to the Lifetime Supervision Law, which prolongs a sex offender's sentence indeterminately.

2. Why aren't communities notified when other types of sex offenders are released?

Currently, the Colorado legislature only authorizes community notification when the highest risk sex offenders enter the community. The sex offender registry lists convicted sex offenders who have registered as required with local law enforcement in each community. Every citizen has the right to request registry information from their local law enforcement agency.

3. Isn't it just a matter of time before the Sexually Violent Predator (SVP) commits another crime?

Sex offenders are closely monitored for high-risk behavior while under supervision and in treatment. Some sex offenders learn through treatment to manage their sexual offending behaviors and decrease their risk of re-offense. However, such behavioral management should not be considered a "cure," and treatment cannot permanently eliminate the risk that sex offenders may repeat their offenses.

4. Now that I know that a Sexually Violent Predator (SVP) lives in my community, what should I do differently to protect myself and my family?

Most SVPs are sentenced to lengthy prison terms, although some SVPs can be released into the community on probation, directly upon sentencing, or on parole, following incarceration and sex offense-specific mental health treatment at the Department of Corrections (DOC). In determining an SVPs risk to the community, the Court or Parole Board considers the professional recommendation of the probation officer or DOC case manager, and the assessment of sex offense-specific mental health evaluators or treatment providers. If the SVP is determined to be manageable in the community, a recommendation may be made that he/she be supervised by probation or parole. In all cases, the Court or Parole Board must make the determination regarding the placement of an SVP. 

SVPs represent a small proportion of all convicted sex offenders. Approximately 65% of all convicted sex offenders in Colorado receive a direct placement to the community from the Court. In Colorado, many SVPs are subject to the Lifetime Supervision Law, which prolongs a sex offender's sentence indeterminately.

5. What do I tell my children about the Sexually Violent Predator (SVP)?

Avoid scary details. You know more than your children need to know. Use language that is honest and age-appropriate (e.g. "there are people who do bad things to children"). Include general information, as this may protect them from others who would try to harm them as well. If your children are likely to have contact with the SVP or other registered sex offenders, you should show your children the sex offender's photo. 

In a manner that does not incite panic, instruct your children to avoid all contact with the SVP, even if the SVP's offense of conviction does not involve an offense against a child. Instruct them to avoid being in the vicinity of the SVP's residence or workplace. All sex offenders are prohibited from contact with children, and any contact should be reported to the supervising officer. Encourage your children to tell you if the sex offender initiates contact with them. 

Review the public safety materials with your children and encourage your children to tell you about any contact with the SVP or any other person who makes them feel uncomfortable. It is important to teach your children about appropriate and inappropriate contact and to encourage regular discussion about their interactions with other people.