California’s ‘Jessica Law’ Deemed Counterproductive

A law created a few years ago in California was supposed to bar convicted sex offenders from living within 2,000 feet of schools, parks and other areas where children might be playing. The idea was to remove the temptation for convicted felons. However, the plan has backfired, and now convicted sex offenders are having difficulty trying to find places to live. Many can only afford to live in the areas where they are not allowed to purchase or rent a home.

This is forcing many sex offenders out onto the streets, where they are much more likely to commit crimes. Therefore, many city governments have taken it upon themselves to pay the rents of several convicted sex offenders. This has increased by over 12 percent since the law was enacted.

Lawmakers are having difficulty finding a solution. If they remove the ban, their constituents may be angry with them. However, they must keep them off of the streets and are having to do so with the taxpayers’ money.

For more information about this law and its possible solutions, contact a lawyer today!