Sex crime convictions in Colorado come with severe consequences that extend far beyond the immediate legal ramifications. The criminal justice system protects society from the harm caused by criminal behavior, such as sex crimes. Still, sex crime convictions can lead to many other consequences that can have long-lasting effects on individuals and their families.
Colorado Sex Crime Convictions Carry Significant Cost
According to research from Freakonomics, the costs associated with a sex crime conviction can be significant and enduring. For example, many convicted of sex offenses must register on the sex offender registry, which the public can access. This can often make it difficult for them to find employment or housing, which can cause significant financial strain. It can also cause hardships for the family members living with the convicted sex offender due to many of the same reasons.
In addition to the challenges associated with finding employment and housing, sex crime convictions in Colorado can lead to various other costs. For instance, many convicted sex offenders must undergo counseling or therapy, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Furthermore, they may also be required to take polygraph tests or submit to other forms of monitoring, which can be emotionally taxing.
Another cost associated with sex crime convictions in Colorado is the loss of personal relationships. Convicted sex offenders may find it difficult to maintain relationships with friends and family members, even their children, who may be ostracized by their peers due to their parent’s conviction. In addition, developing new friendships may be stressful as discussions of the past are addressed. Furthermore, the social stigma associated with sex crimes can lead to feelings of shame and isolation, which can significantly impact mental health.
One of the most significant costs associated with sex crime convictions in Colorado is the possibility of incarceration. Not only can incarceration be traumatic and stressful, but it can also lead to a range of other costs.
For instance, while incarcerated, individuals may be unable to work and earn a living, which can cause significant financial strain. Furthermore, upon release, they may find it challenging to find employment or housing due to their criminal record, which can further exacerbate financial difficulties.
Sex crime convictions can also lead to the loss of civil rights. In our state, convicted sex offenders may be prohibited from owning firearms or voting, which can have significant political and social implications. They may also face restrictions on where they can live or work, further limiting their opportunities.
Understanding the Full Impact of a Colorado Sex Crimes Conviction
Bottom line? The costs associated with sex crime convictions in Colorado can be significant and enduring. They can have a huge impact on the offender, their friends, and their family members. From financial strain to loss of personal relationships, the consequences of a conviction can be felt for years, if not decades, after the fact.
While the criminal justice system certainly has a vital role in protecting society from the harm caused by criminal behavior, it is also essential to recognize that the costs associated with convictions can be far-reaching and have significant implications for individuals and their families.
Policymakers must consider the far-reaching implications of sex crime convictions and work to ensure that individuals can rebuild their lives and personal communities after serving their sentences. By doing so, we can work to create a more just and equitable society for all.
About the Author:
Kimberly Diego is a criminal defense attorney in Denver practicing at The Law Office of Kimberly Diego. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and her law degree at the University of Colorado. She was named one of Super Lawyers’ “Rising Stars of 2012 & 2019-2022” and a “Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Colorado” for 2012-2022 by The National Trial Lawyers. Both honors are limited to a small percentage of practicing attorneys in each state. Additionally, Expertise names her to its lists of the 25 Best Denver DUI Lawyers and 21 Best Denver Criminal Defense Lawyers, both in 2020-2022. Ms. Diego has also been recognized for her work in domestic violence cases.
