In what country do you live? Perhaps I can help if you live in Canada. Also, there is a support group for parents whose children were abused here on 'daily strength'.

I am a Criminal Justice Major who almost has my degree and writing the letter you need to write is going to be tough. However, I can give you some pointers on what most state parole boards look at prior to paroling a sex offender. They include: The inmates disciplinary record in prison( which with a sex offender doesn't account for much), statements from the victim (Thats where you come in!), whether the inmate has voluntarily participated in sex offender treatment while in prison. Regarding the previous, If he has not participated in treatment while in prison, the odds of him being paroled are virtually non-existent. I recommend the following tips in writing the letter: 1) bring up the fact that he has only served a third of his sentence, 2) bring up you/ and your daughters depression and need for counseling in the letter, 3) If you feel like, he got a break on the original charges: explain to the members of parole board why you feel this way. But more importantly, 4) The better you can explain how the offenders crime has impacted you and/or your daughters life in a negative way, the better in terms of getting the parole board to decide that the offender should remain in prison. But, I also must remind you that the offender will be on a sex offender registry from ten years to life depending on the circumstances. I must also tell you that there is no conclusive evidence that the registry alone prevents a sexual predator from committing another sex offense. What I can tell you is that, the offender will have one heck of a time meeting the guidelines of parole even if he is paroled. This is because employers do not legally have to hire sex offenders and over 95% will not do it. Having employment is a normal requirement of parole, paying off one's fines, meeting with his/her parole officer is another one. The bottom line is if a sex offender is paroled. Then he is going to have a lot tougher time trying to reintegrate himself into society. This fact in and of itself tends to increase the odds of him reoffending again based upon my knowledge of similar cases.

Thank you both for your responses. I live in Georgia, USA. JB143581- The info you provided will help me so much, as I start writing my letter. I really appreciate it.

In Canada, showing an interest to the parole board is the best way to have him watched closer.

In my opinion, you are best to keep your focus on yourself and your daughter. I'm not for meds either - but I think I'll be in therapy for life ... even though monthly seems to be fine now, I get rough moments in life when something flares up.

I agree with jb's facts. While I interpret his comments to be grateful that parole requirements are especially difficult for sex offenders; I believe that a proper balance of letting them live while remaining accountable is best. A freind of mine works for youth protection and volunteers to support sex offenders, so long as they promise to make steps that help prevent victimizing another person. The sex offenders that are supported are caught repeating their offences 60% less ... it's not a perfect return for her efforts & I couldn't do it ... but I do respect her.

Again - your focus on you and your daughter. Go to the Parole Board if you sense no remorse or beleive that a tighter leash is needed. The other family members can encourage him to seek help and feel that he still has something to lose if he doesnt help himself.

Thank you all for your input. In Georgia, you can only write to the Parole board, so I have to write what I want them to know. I wish we could sit in front of them and explain our position. I just need to cover everything in the letter.