What Factors Does The Board Consider In Making A Classification Decision?
The Sex Offender Registry Board considers a wide range of information in conducting its evaluation of an individual’s possible classification level. Listed in the Massachusetts Code of Regulations, the Board’s regulations sets forth the registration and classification procedures and guidelines the Board uses to determine whether a convicted or adjudicated sex offender may be required to register as a sex offender and, if so, the offender’s level of risk of reoffense and degree of dangerousness posed to the public.
The Sex Offender Registry Board will consider whether:
- 1) a petitioner has a documented mental health history, including any diagnoses of a paraphilia;
- 2) the underlying sex offense(s) stemmed from repetitive and compulsive behavior;
- 3) the offense involved a child victim;
- 4) the offender’s age at the time of the first offense;
- 5) the individual has been subject to a civil commitment proceeding;
- 6) the individual’s behavior while incarcerated, on probation or parole;
- 7) the nature and specific facts of the underlying sex offense conviction(s);
- 8) the petitioner has undergone any sex offender specific treatment;
- 9) the petitioner has a physical health situation that impacts his reoffense risk;
- 10) the petitioner has undergone any substance or alcohol treatment; and
- 11) any other information, including work and education histories, present living situation, and amount of time in the community without reoffending.
