This report sheds light on the complexities and high costs associated with California’s program to supervise the release of sexually violent predators.
The Department of State Hospitals DSH contracts with Liberty Healthcare to manage housing, mental health treatment, and supervision for these individuals. Although the program is deemed effective in preventing reoffenses — with only two reconvictions among 56 participants — it has sparked controversy due to its steep financial burden and the community opposition to the placement of such individuals in residential areas.
Key findings of the audit include a 75% rise in program costs from 2018 to 2023, attributed to housing expenses, an increasing number of participants, the need for private security, and higher vendor rates.
Efforts to secure alternative vendors have failed, leaving Liberty Healthcare as the sole provider.
The report also highlights the difficulty of finding housing, with some participants waiting years for placement, largely due to legal restrictions and community resistance.
Criticism from officials like Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones underscores concerns about public safety and program oversight. Jones advocates for housing released predators on state property with constant supervision rather than in residential areas.
This approach contrasts with the current practice, which often faces community backlash, as seen in cases like that of Christopher Hubbart, the Pillowcase Rapist, whose release stirred significant opposition.
The audit calls for improvements in housing solutions, though DSH has pushed back on proposals for state-owned transitional housing, arguing that it would raise costs without solving the core problem of permanent housing placements.
This debate highlights the ongoing struggle between managing costs, protecting communities, and ensuring the successful reintegration of offenders.