University of Hawai'i University Relations Media & Publications Honolulu, HI 96822	(808) 956-8856 Telephone (808) 956-3441 Facsimile ur@hawaii.edu E-Mail
Contact: Cheryl Ernst, 956-5941	Air Date: April 3, 1998

Sex Offender Program Pt. II   Hawaii's sex offender treatment program is pretty successful, with longer sentences and an effective treatment program. Here's why: In Hawai'i, felony sex offenders must opt for treatment in order to qualify for parole. Four out of five do-the highest percentage in the nation. Hawai'i imposes long sentences that are not shortened for good behavior. Long sentences work not because they punish or deter, but because they create leverage, says Barry Coyne, the UH School of Social Work associate specialist who administers the sexual offender treatment program in Hawai'i's prisons. The treatment program emphasizes both therapy and relapse prevention. Inmates must prove they are ready for release, even if it means repeating segments of the program. Finally, the five state agencies that deal with sex offenses and offenders in Hawai'i agree on a consistent, coordinated approach. They all meet regularly and vote on any variations to the state's sex offender treatment master plan. This is the University Report, I'm Tracy Orillo Donovan.

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