NCJ Number
244908
Journal
Criminal Justice Policy Review Volume: 24 Issue: 4 Dated: July 2013 Pages: 441-472
Date Published
July 2013
Length
32 pages
Annotation
This study examined sex offender residence restriction policies in upstate New York.
Abstract
This study examined whether sex offender residence restriction policies were associated with the clustering of registered sex offender (RSO) residences in 3,056 upstate New York block groups. RSO clustering was measured as the average distance between an RSO and the five closest RSO neighbors, and was aggregated to the block group level. Controls were included for structural characteristics of block groups as well as regional differences within the study area. Results indicate that block groups with relatively newer residence restrictions had decreased RSO clustering (i.e., RSOs living farther apart from each other) compared to block groups without such policies. However, block groups that had residence restrictions for longer than about 2 years had similar RSO clustering levels to block groups without such policies. Results suggest a nonlinear relationship between how long a residence restriction is in place and RSO clustering levels. Implications for future research and policy are discussed. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.