Evaluating Sex Offender Registration And Notification Policies Through Ethical Theory

Sabrina Lickfelt Professor O’Toole April 14, 2024 Ethics and Law Evaluating Sex Offender Registration and Notification Policies through Ethical Theory The sex offender registration and notification policies have been a contentious issue in criminal justice systems worldwide. These policies require individuals convicted of certain sexual crimes to register with law enforcement agencies, making personal information available to the public. However, the ethical implications of these policies are complex and raise questions about privacy, fairness, and rehabilitation. Within this paper, it will evaluate sex offender registration and notification policies through the lens of ethical theory. Considering the perspectives of utilitarianism, deontology,

Such as the stigmatization and isolation of offenders, which may impede their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Therefore, the utilitarian evaluation of these policies must weigh the benefits of community safety against the harms to offenders and their chances of reintegration. In some states, such as Seattle, they have started “examining potential revisions to sex offender sentencing ranges. They are also examining post-conviction policies (Martinell, 2023).” In addition to that there is also Deontology. Deontology emphasizes the importance of adhering to moral principles and duties, regardless of their consequences. From a deontological perspective, sex offender registration and notification policies may raise concerns regarding the individual's rights and dignity. These policies often involve the public disclosure of an offender’s personal information, which may infringe upon their right to privacy and object to society. Moreover, deontology showcases the principle of treating individuals as ends in themselves rather than a means to an end. Hence, the use of offenders’ personal information for public notification must be carefully used and