The Big Question

Do we need a Megan’s Law in this country?

Kerry Evans – Parent of two severely autistic sons
Most child abusers can’t be cured as this is a misplaced sexual orientation, and so parents with children should know who is living next door. More emphasis should be placed on detecting and preventing child abuse crimes. Naming and shaming tends to be less effective as it gives rise to unrest and drives abusers underground.

Angie Lawrence – Single mother
I can understand the public’s desire to know if a paedophile is living in their area, but we don’t know about all the other criminals. We also don’t know about the paedophiles who have not been prosecuted. Parents need to take care with their children wherever they are and whoever is around. This kind of knowledge is no guarantee of a child’s safety.

Len Smith – Gypsy activist
We need closer observation and control of known paedophiles, but I do not believe that a Megan’s Law is the way to do that. Vigilante action was rife the last time this subject arose in the press, and if it’s given its head again it could result in a genuine lynch mob mentality. No good trying to cure one sickness by giving the whole body a disease.

Eve Rank – Inspired services
Parents have the right to know their children are safe but these offenders, although they have done wrong, have rights too. If people can find out that paedophiles are living near them, we know that problems will happen: people will be abused and get beaten up. The law must work properly and services need to be there to help these people where possible.