Experts Testify In MN Sex Offender Program Trial
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A federal judge is closer to deciding if it's constitutional to keep Minnesota sex offenders in custody indefinitely. Only three offenders have been released from treatment.
In court Wednesday, staffers who take care of the 700 residents at the Moose Lake and St. Peter facilities answered questions. An attorney representing offenders says the state's program doesn't allow a chance for offenders to redeem themselves.
Dan Gustafson spent another day in court trying to make a point that offenders who have served decades behind bars are essentially trapped by the state.
He called a list of psychologists and therapists who work with them to testify.
"I don't question whether these clinicians are doing their best and trying their hardest and have good intention," Gustafson said. "It's just a system that's set up that's not working very well."
Gustafson questioned a therapist who said no matter the level of progress offenders make, they all live under razor wire security and that offenders are not regularly assessed for progress.
The state, defending the program, questioned therapists who say the offenders get regular therapy and that they witness progress every day.
A national prisoner rehabilitation group showed up to watch a trial they hope will gain the attention of the nation.
"I needed to be here to see this historic trial," said Galen Baughman of the group, Citizens United for Rehabilitation of Errants. "This case should lay the foundation for the Supreme Court of the U.S. to revisit their position that civil commitment is constructional."
On Thursday, several of the sex offenders will take the stand to tell their side of the story.