Adult Probation >Adult Probation Information >Supervision Supervision: Sex Offender Program The purpose of the Sex Offender Program is two-fold: First, to provide a means of external control through the increased supervision and surveillance of convicted sex offenders. Second, to provide a means for the offenders to develop internal control by engaging in intensive treatment to address any sexual deviancy. The incorporation of these controls is the basis of the countainment approach to the supervision of sex offenders. This is based on the premis that the sex offender is responsible for the damage inflicted upon others and that they be held accountable for their thoughts and behavior.

The Sex Offender Program utilizes a mandartory specialized education program for sex offenders. The topics addressed include treatment expectations, issues of basic human sexuality, societal role models, social sterotyping, the development of sexual diviancy, and the impact of sexual abuse on victims.

Spouses, family members, and friends are encouraged to participate. The class is mandatory for any sigificant other being considered as a chaperone for the offender and as part of the reunification process. Resources for Spanish speakers are available. Probation and Surveillance Officers also attend the classes.

An assessment of the offender's payment ability may deem him/her eligible for financial assistance. This assists the defendant as s/he progresses through a difficult, intensive, highly structured program consisting of primary group treatment for a period of two years or more, which is then followed by involvement in ongoing maintenance groups. Throughout their involvement in the program, the offender must submit to periodic physiological and psychological testing. Testing validates the veracity of the offender's statements and works to diminish the use of denial, minimization and rationalization.

Victims and families also benefit from the program by addressing their special needs. This program has special rules and guidelines that must be followed for contact or reunification to occur. Our specialed sex offender officers, working closely with all parties involved, address the needs and issues of the offender, the victim(s) and the families.

If you have questoins regarding treatment providers or counseling, please call (602) 372-4701. For information on sex offender supervision, please call (602) 372-2331.

Quick Reference: Sex Offender Treatment
Typical Probationer Characteristics	Program Characteristics
Offender is on probation	Utilized by Intensive Probation Supervision and Standard Probation
Current or historical sexual deviancy; e.g., indecent exposure, trespassing, voyeurism, molestation	Allows for community supervision of incest offenders who typically respond well to treatment
Defendant is likely to minimize or deny offense behavior and the need for treatment	May avert hands-on offense behaviors from exhibitionists, voyeurs, etc., by teaching intrinsic controls
May present self as excessively compliant with probation conditions while engaged in deceptive behaviors	Victim services
Resistance to external controls	Inclusive of family and victim(s) when possible and appropriate
	Generally conducted in a group setting to increase accountability of offender
	Meet specialized needs of lower functioning offenders
	Team approach fosters integration of internal control
	Professional testing, documentation of progress or lack of progress
	Professional testimony