Viewpoint Synthesis

Viewpoint Synthesis
Alicia Tena Rosales
Salt Lake Community College
ENG 1010: Intro to Writing
Deon Martineau
April 13, 2024

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 Viewpoint Synthesis

Is the existing punishment sufficient to discourage child offenders from

committing further offenses?
Introduction:
In recent years, there has been a disturbing escalation in cases of child sexual abuse, epitomized
by tragic events such as The death of Gabriel Fernandez on May 22, 2013. The harrowing
discovery of Gabriel, an 8-year-old boy, in his home – battered, broken, sexually abused and
unresponsive – shocked the nation. His injuries, including a cracked skull, broken ribs, burns,
and missing teeth, painted a horrifying picture of prolonged abuse and neglect. What makes this
tragedy even more distressing is that it occurred despite numerous complaints lodged against
Pearl Fernandez and her boyfriend, Isauro Aguirre, spanning nearly a decade. Despite these cries
for help, California's social care system faltered in its duty to protect Gabriel, with investigations
yielding little action. Tragically, Gabriel succumbed to his injuries two days later, sparking
outrage and calls for accountability. The case of Gabriel Fernandez is not an isolated incident but
rather emblematic of a wider systemic failure to safeguard vulnerable children from abuse. It
raises urgent questions about the adequacy of our current punitive measures in deterring such
heinous offenses.

Synthesis Statement:
The question posed is: “Is the existing punishment sufficient to discourage child offenders from
committing further offenses?” The three primary viewpoints emerge on deterring child offenders:
proponents argue that current punishments effectively deter child predators from reoffending,
opponents contend that the punishment is insufficient in preventing further offenses, and
advocates emphasize the importance of focusing on prevention measures alongside punitive
measures.

View One: Punishments effectively deter Child Predators from Reoffending

Proponents of the viewpoint asserting that the punishment for child predators is adequate to deter
them from committing additional offenses argue that sentencing such offenders to life in prison
or maximum prison terms serves multiple essential purposes. Firstly, it ensures that the offender
will not have the opportunity to repeat the offense against any other child, thus safeguarding
potential future victims. Secondly, punishments that are enforced onto child predators.

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 Viewpoint Synthesis

Supporting this stance, Walker's (2023) report details the case of Peter Arnold-Brooks Graf, who
received a life sentence for aggravated sexual assault of a child and other related offenses. This
severe punishment underscores the seriousness with which the justice system addresses such
crimes and aims to prevent future instances of child abuse. Similarly, a report from the Lincoln
Journal Star (2007) highlights a case where a 24-year-old man received the maximum sentence
for contributing to the delinquency of a child. This decision reflects the judge's acknowledgment
of the significant threat posed by the individual, who had previously faced charges of sexual
assault against a child, reinforcing the notion that stringent punishment acts as a deterrent against
further offenses. Additionally, legislative measures such as the "Protection of Children From
Predators" bill further reinforce the stance on deterring child predators. This bill amends the
Federal criminal code to prohibit and set penalties for various offenses related to enticing minors
into illegal sexual activities. For instance, it increases penalties for coercing or enticing
individuals to engage in such activities and doubles the maximum term of imprisonment for
repeat offenses. Furthermore, the bill addresses issues related to child pornography, providing for
the prosecution of individuals involved in its production and distribution. These legislative
efforts complement the punitive measures advocated by proponents, aiming to strengthen
protections for children and combat child exploitation. These examples illustrate the perspective
of proponents who believe that imposing severe penalties, such as life imprisonment or
maximum prison terms, effectively deters child predators from committing additional offenses,
emphasizing the importance of robust consequences in protecting children and society.

View Two: Punishment is Insufficient in Preventing Further Offenses

The opponents of the viewpoint argue that the punishment for child predators is not adequate to
deter them from committing additional offenses. They argue that the leniency of the court
system, particularly in granting bail, has resulted in several detrimental outcomes, including an
increased risk of child predators reoffending, a heightened threat to both society and children,
and a lack of justice for the child victims. Even during the trial, predators continue to offend. To
support this perspective, Choate's (2024) report highlights the case of William Mark Crump, who
was sentenced to life in prison for raping a 5-year-old girl. Despite Crump's extensive criminal
history, including prior convictions for aggravated sexual abuse, he was given the opportunity to
offend again. This case underscores the inadequacy of the punishment in deterring repeat

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offenses and protecting vulnerable children. Secondly, it’s deemed ineffective due to the
inadequacy of the punishment’s duration, providing a window for predators to reoffend.
Similarly, McNeill's (2015) article discusses the case of Michael Shepard, a designated sexual
predator who, despite warnings about his past, was allowed to interact with children in his
neighborhood. Less than 18 months after his release from prison, Shepard faced charges of
raping or assaulting multiple children, highlighting the failure of the justice system to prevent
recidivism. This case emphasizes the need for more effective measures to identify and monitor
dangerous offenders to prevent further harm to children and communities. Statistics from the
Bureau of Justice further illustrate the opponents' perspective. These statistics reveal high rates
of rearrest, reconviction, and parole violations among child molesters and statutory rapists
released from prison in 1994. The majority of rearrested individuals were charged with felony
offenses, emphasizing the severity of the issue. These examples illustrate the perspective of
opponents who argue that the current punishment for child predators is insufficient in deterring
repeat offenses, emphasizing the urgent need for reform to better protect children and ensure
justice for victims.

View Three: Prevention Measures alongside Punitive Measure

The third perspective concurs that the punitive measures aimed at child predators are insufficient
in deterring further offenses. It emphasizes the inadequacy of addressing child sexual abuse
primarily due to the limited focus on prevention alongside punitive actions. It also emphasizes
the importance of understanding the psychological aspects underlying these offenses and
highlights the need for comprehensive approaches to address the issue. Key points include
recognizing that some individuals may have a preference for sexual activity involving children,
challenging perceptions that men lack inherent instincts to safeguard children, and
acknowledging the lack of successful methods to convert pedophiles into non-pedophiles.
Supporting this viewpoint, Reimer's (2012) report discusses the failure of institutions like Penn
State to intervene in cases of child sexual abuse, which could have potentially prevented further
harm by addressing the issue at an earlier stage. The report underscores the broader societal issue
of focusing solely on punishment rather than prioritizing prevention and treatment, especially
considering emerging research indicating that some individuals may have a predisposition
towards such behavior. Furthermore, in an article by LaRose (2023), proposed legislation in

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 Viewpoint Synthesis

Louisiana aiming to protect child sexual abuse victims undergoes scrutiny and potential
amendment. Initially suggesting surgical castration for offenders targeting children under 13, the
bill encountered opposition, prompting a shift towards exploring proactive prevention strategies.
Led by Sen. Regina Barrow, a study panel advocates for education and proactive intervention,
stressing the importance of empowering children to communicate about abuse. They propose
age-appropriate instruction on sexual abuse awareness and prevention in schools. Perpetrators of
child sexual abuse often use special nicknames for children's genitals, hindering communication
about abuse. Teaching children accurate anatomical terms can help overcome this barrier. The
traditional single "sex talk" should evolve into ongoing conversations about sexuality, fostering
openness and healthy attitudes. Contrary to a common misconception, educating children about
sexuality does not increase sexual behavior; early conversations can prevent harm. Encouraging
safe and supportive dialogue around sexual development is crucial for prevention (Masse, 2023).
Legislative amendments, such as renaming instruction on "sexual abuse" to "child assault
awareness and prevention," reflect societal discomfort with discussing sexual education in
schools. No one suggests child sex abusers escape consequences; laws are in place to ensure
appropriate punishment. Now, emphasis needs to shift towards prevention, including identifying
and aiding individuals before they offend and equipping children with necessary information to
stay safe. The perspective underscores the need for a balanced approach that combines
punishment for offenders with prevention strategies, rejecting the notion of shielding children
intellectually as an effective prevention tactic. Instead, the focus is on early identification of
potential offenders and equipping children with the knowledge to protect themselves,
recognizing that solely shielding them intellectually is inadequate and potentially harmful.

Conclusion:
In my own viewpoint, I agree that the punishment for child predators is insufficient to deter them
from committing additional offenses. Therefore, I don’t advocate for implementing prevention
measures alongside punitive actions. Several factors highlight the inadequacy of relying solely
on punitive measures and advocate for a comprehensive approach that encompasses prevention
strategies alongside legal consequences. Firstly, perpetrators often use manipulative tactics to
groom children to commit further offenses, as outlined by Elliott et al. (1995), Berliner & Conte
(1990), and Conte et al. (1989), which may render traditional punishment insufficient in

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deterring their behavior. Secondly, the punishment that predators receive does not prevent them
from offending. The prevalence of child predators within familiar environments, despite varied
backgrounds, challenges the notion of stranger danger and necessitates a more nuanced approach
to prevention. For example, data from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice indicates a
significant number of paroled sex offenders residing in Harris County, underscoring the need for
targeted prevention efforts within communities. Moreover, the Children’s Assessment Center
(n.d.) highlights the multifaceted nature of sexual abuse, encompassing various criminal
offenses, underscoring the severity of the issue beyond mere punishment. Additionally,
testimony from psychologist Thaddeus Garlewski in the trial of Edward W. Barborich, as
reported by Spice (2000), underscores the complexity of pedophilia and the challenges
associated with rehabilitation. Despite diagnoses and past offenses, the risk of re-offending
remains considerable, prompting questions about the effectiveness of punitive measures alone in
preventing recidivism. In conclusion, these considerations emphasize the limitations of
punishment as a singular deterrent for child predators and advocate for a holistic approach that
addresses underlying psychological factors while concurrently emphasizing prevention strategies
alongside legal consequences.
Word Count: 1622/2030

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References:
Abuse stories: The death of Gabriel Fernandez. Image. (n.d.).
https://booth.law/gabriel-fernandez-death/
Child sexual abuse facts & resources. Children’s Assessment Center. (n.d.).
https://cachouston.org/prevention/child-sexual-abuse-facts/
Choate, T. (2024, Feb 08). Jury determines Crump's punishment for raping child. Times Record
News.
https://libprox1.slcc.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/newspapers/jury-determines-crump
s-punishment-raping-child/docview/2923427871/se-2
H.R.3494 - 105th congress (1997-1998): Protection of children from sexual predators act of 1998 |
congress.gov | library of Congress. (n.d.-a).
https://www.congress.gov/bill/105th-congress/house-bill/3494
LaRose, G. (2023). Louisiana Illuminator - States Newsroom: Louisiana deserves modern mindset on
child sexual abuse prevention. Newstex.
https://www.proquest.com/usnews/docview/2769666107/29963C02BCC24A8CPQ/1?accountid=
28671&sourcetype=Blogs,%20Podcasts,%20&%20Websites
Man gets max sentence in sexual abuse of child: [City Edition]. (2007, May 05). Lincoln Journal Star.
https://libprox1.slcc.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/newspapers/man-gets-max-sentenc
e-sexual-abuse-child/docview/248140218/se-2
Masse, M. (2023, Apr 25). Prevention is better than cure: A survivor's story. University Wire
https://libprox1.slcc.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/wire-feeds/prevention-is-better-tha
n-cure-survivors-story/docview/2805468277/se-2
McNeill, C. (2015, Apr 20). PREDATOR GAINED NEIGHBORS' TRUST: AFTER SPENDING 15
YEARS IN
PRISON, MICHAEL SHEPARD GOT A SECOND CHANCE. HE'S NOW ACCUSED OF
ASSAULTING SEVEN CHILDREN. Tampa Bay Times.
https://libprox1.slcc.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/newspapers/predator-gained-neighb
ors-trust/docview/1674223689/se-2
Recidivism of sex offenders released from prison in 1994. (n.d.-a).
https://bjs.ojp.gov/content/pub/pdf/rsorp94.pdf
Reimer, S. (2012, Jul 19). Child sexual abuse needs prevention, not just punishment. The
Baltimore Sun.
https://libprox1.slcc.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/newspapers/child-sexual-abuse-nee
ds-prevention-not-just/docview/1027089072/se-2
Spice, L. (2000, Apr 27). Child molesters could re-offend: [Metro Edition]. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
https://libprox1.slcc.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/newspapers/child-molester-could-r
e-offend/docview/261102408/se-2
Walker, L. (2023, Mar 06). Man found guilty of child sex charges gets life sentence. Times
Record News.
https://libprox1.slcc.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/newspapers/man-found-guilty-child
-sex-charges-gets-life/docview/2783424658/se-2