Study: Program For Sex Offenders Is Reducing Crime

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Sex offenders who are enrolled in a new mentoring program through the Department of Corrections are 84 percent less likely to return to prison, according to a new study.

Minnesota Circles of Support and Accountability started in 2008, working with level 2 sex offenders who have a moderate risk of re-offending.

Each offender about to be released from prison is matched with a group of four to seven volunteer mentors, in an effort to prevent new crimes. Volunteers in the program receive training and support from the Department of Corrections.

They work with offenders to help them find jobs, housing, treatment and other resources as they return to their communities.

The program relies on volunteers, which saves money for taxpayers, according to a press release.

Officials say every dollar that's spent on the program is estimated to have a return savings of $1.82.

The study will be published in Sexual Abuse: A Journal of Research and Treatment.