A system that would keep convicted sex offenders confined after their prison term is expected to require hundreds of state personnel and more than $80 million a year. It was not immediately clear how the new civil confinement system will overlap or mesh with the current Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 sex offender categories set out under Megan's Law. Spitzer said about 1,500 inmates would fit what will be called a "sexually motivated felony, but that does not mean anything close to that number would be confined."
HOW THE PLAN WOULD WORK
Before their scheduled release from prison, mental health experts would assess inmates to determine whether they pose a risk of committing more sex offenses. A jury would then decide whether a convict is likely to commit future crimes, and a judge would rule on confining the offender or placing him under intensive supervision after release.
(New York)