The purpose of this study was to better understand the impact of sex offender registration and notification laws on the family members of registered sex offenders (RSO). An online survey was utilized to collect data from 584 family members across the U.S. Employment problems experienced by the RSO, and subsequent financial hardships, emerged as the most pressing issue identified by family members. The likelihood of housing disruption was correlated with residential restriction laws; larger buffer distances led to increased frequencies of housing crisis. Family members living with an RSO were more likely to experience threats and harassment by neighbors. Children of RSOs reportedly experienced adverse consequences including stigmatization and differential treatment by teachers and classmates. More than half had experienced ridicule, teasing, depression, anxiety, fear, or anger. Unintended consequences can impact family members’ ability to support RSOs in their efforts to avoid recidivism and successfully reintegrate. Implications for criminal justice policy and practice are discussed.

We must again remember the important fact that in most States all offenders are treated the same way. There is no difference in the eyes of the law or the eyes of the public how long that former offender has been offense free, if he successfully completed a treatment program, or what his risk level is.

We say “if it protects one child” it’s worth it… What about the children of the former sex offenders? We are torturing them. They are harassed at school, no one to play with. Their (RSO) parent can’t come to their baseball games or recitals or plays. While we are seeking revenge upon the (RSO) father, or mother we are bringing the previous sins of that parent on the children. A civilized society should be ashamed.

After a much await time, the RSOL of IN website is now back and looking better then before. There are a lot of new options for user to take advantage of. We have installed a community discussion forum to help share our strength and mission. We now also have a new live chat feature, this means you can chat with different people from around the state. Please visit us everyday, as the site will continue to have more and more things added to it.