Should prosecutors be allowed more discretion before adding kids to sex offender registries?
"Offenses triggering inclusion on the registries can range widely -- from rape to consensual sex between children to "sexting" of photos that depict nudity or sexual activity," reports the Associated Press.
Human Rights Watch is calling for reform of the laws. The group points to the case of a young man, Austin, from Louisiana who was placed on the registry at age 14 after he had sex with a 12-year-old, which was under the age of consent.
"Our mistake is forever available to the world to see," Austin is quoted as saying. "You are never done serving your time. There is never a chance for a fresh start."
The federal Adam Walsh Act requires states to include certain juvenile sex offenders as young as 14 on their registries.
Today's Question: Should prosecutors be allowed more discretion before adding kids to sex offender registries?
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