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Sex Offender Supervision Network

Introduction

The Sex Offender Supervision Network (SOSN) directs standards for the management of sex offenders in Oregon. Discussions of supervision and sanctioning are initiated by those officers and other professionals working directly with the offenders in the community. Model programs throughout the state have been identified with many of these programs or program components replicated in other jurisdictions. Support and consultation routinely occurs in addressing both local community issues in program development and issues related to individual sex offender cases.

The Network is critical to effective management of sex offenders in Oregon. Through the networks original strategies and vision, Oregon has become a national example in the area of community supervision of this difficult group of offenders. 

Mission 

The mission of the Sex Offender Supervision Network (SOSN) is to: 
  • Establish statewide leadership;
  • Develop consistent, standard evaluations, treatment and supervision;
  • Share resources and expertise; train and enhance skill development; and
  • Provide educated and informed recommendations and input to the department, to local community leaders and the Legislature on policy issues related to community supervision of sex offenders and their treatment.

History

A unique overlay to Oregon's sex offender supervision strategy is a line-level group of parole/probation officers empowered to significantly guide the direction of sex offender supervision for the state: the Sex Offender Supervision Network. The Network was founded on the belief that empowerment and participatory management will result in the most effective strategies to manage this and other offender groups. 
  
The Network was conceived at a conference in 1990 when three parole/probation officers organized a meeting of POs from all over the state who supervised sex offenders. The participants in this first meeting recognized the value in their increased communication, sharing information and networking with fellow POs who supervised this difficult caseload 

What SOSN Provides

  • Development of intensive supervision and specialized caseloads;
  • Training and expertise in identification, development and referral for sex offender evaluation and treatment resources:
    • Effective sex offender treatment programs will significantly slow the cycle of sex abuse. These programs should include supervision by parole and probation officers who have received training in the dynamics of the sex offender and in the techniques that are effective with this population. Sex offender treatment, in the prison and the community, should be provided by licensed sex offender treatment professionals.
  • Competent and professional execution of state statutes related to:
    • Sex offender registration
    • Sex offender community notification
  • Public education: professional and informed, the Network addresses public concerns about risk, risk management, contract prohibitions, notification and registration.
  • Guidance for the sex offender in risk management, treatment issues and early detection of indicators of re-offense.

Documents 

Meeting Minutes