Washington’s criminal justice system includes several programs aimed at rehabilitation, one of which is the Special Sex Offender Sentencing Alternative (SSOSA). This program provides eligible offenders with a sentencing option that emphasizes treatment over incarceration. Please contact a skilled criminal defense attorney now if you or a loved one has been convicted of any type of sex crime.

What is SSOSA?

The Special Sex Offender Sentencing Alternative allows certain sex offenders convicted of non-violent offenses to serve a reduced jail sentence while undergoing court-supervised treatment. The program’s goal is to reduce recidivism by addressing the underlying causes of the offender’s behavior through rigorous therapy and monitoring.

Please note that not all offenders qualify for SSOSA. Eligibility requirements include:

  • Conviction of a qualifying crime: The offender must be convicted of a sex offense that is eligible for SSOSA. Violent sex crimes, such as aggravated rape, are generally excluded.
  • First-time offender: Typically, the individual must have no prior convictions for sex offenses.
  • Sentence length: The standard sentence for the offense must exceed one year but not be so long that treatment becomes impractical.
  • Victim input: Courts often consider the opinion of the victim or the victim’s family when determining eligibility.
  • Risk assessment: A comprehensive risk assessment evaluates whether the offender poses a significant risk to the community if allowed to participate in SSOSA.

How Does SSOSA Work?

Once an offender is deemed eligible, the court can impose a suspended sentence and order participation in a structured treatment program. Key components include:

  • Reduced jail time: Offenders may serve part of their sentence in custody, but the majority of the time is spent in treatment.
  • Treatment program: The offender must complete a court-approved sex offender treatment program, often involving counseling and therapy.
  • Community supervision: The offender is subject to strict supervision, including regular check-ins with a probation officer, polygraph tests, and monitoring for compliance with treatment.
  • Conditions of release: Offenders must adhere to stringent conditions, such as avoiding contact with minors and refraining from certain activities.

If an offender fails to meet any of the above conditions, the court may revoke the alternative sentence, and the offender could be required to serve the original prison term.

Benefits and Controversies

SSOSA has been praised for its rehabilitative focus, which aims to reduce the likelihood of reoffending by addressing the root causes of criminal behavior. However, critics argue that the program might be too lenient, especially in cases where victims or the community feel that justice has not been adequately served.

Contact Black & Askerov for Help

The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Black & Askerov have over 30 years of combined experience defending clients on various sex crime charges. Our Seattle criminal defense lawyers also have the skill and commitment that makes all the difference in these cases. Contact us now to get the legal help you deserve!

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