Resources - PARSOL - Pennsylvania Assoc for Rational Sex Offense Laws (PA Megan's Law Resources)

No Room at the Home: Barriers for Long-Term Care for Aging ‘Sex Offenders’

March 16, 2025January 26, 2025

When criminologist Stephanie Jerstad’s former client, a registered ‘sex offender’ died waiting to find a long-term care facility in Illinois that would accept him, she dedicated her dissertation research to studying if facility-level characteristics matter in explaining organizational policies for the admission of persons on the sex offender registry. This issue intersects with public health, social justice, and human rights,…

Rebuilding Community: Transforming Lives with Restorative Circles

February 23, 2025January 26, 2025

In a world often defined by disconnection, punishment and retribution, restorative circles offer a compelling alternative: connection, accountability, and healing. Amber Vlangas, a leading voice in restorative justice and a survivor of sexual violence, passionately advocates for this transformative approach. At the 2024 PARSOL Fall Conference, she shared insights into the powerful practice of restorative circles, which bridge the divide…

A New Year’s Resolution: Managing Stigma as a PFR

January 1, 2025January 3, 2025

It’s a new year! Many of us make New Year’s resolutions like a healthy diet, going to the gym, catching up with friends and family members, and financial goals to improve our lifestyles. Those are great resolutions, but what about persons forced to register (PFRs)? What’s something deeply personal for you to work on? Living with the label of “registered…

Domestic Travel On the Registry Challenges

October 15, 2024October 5, 2024

Involvement with the legal system in the United States can be a traumatizing experience. For those who have been found guilty of crimes of a sexual nature, this process almost always results in a massive upheaval of what is considered normal. The dread of what is going to play out in the courts, the shame of exposure, and the remorse…

Guest Post: I believe I was the target of a police sting

July 31, 2024July 31, 2024

Submitted by Atwo Zee, Registered Traveler Not long after I returned to Iowa after the 2024 NARSOL conference in Atlanta, I received an email forwarded by the national NARSOL office. This message came to them on their main “Contact Us” email address, and whoever sent it was looking specifically for me, “whose story “Unwanted Images” hit home when I was…

PARSOL Artistic Expression Forum Planned for May 24

April 18, 2024April 18, 2024

Artistic Submissions Due by May 17th Join us for an evening of artistic exploration and heartfelt expression at the PARSOL Artistic Expression Forum on May 24th at 7:00 p.m. Unlock the power of poetry, paintings, drawings, sculpting, and various art forms to convey the registry’s impact on individuals. This event is open to all, including Persons Forced to Register (PFRs),…

PARSOL releases new report on autism, IDD, & sex offenses

April 11, 2024May 5, 2024

As Pennsylvania observes both Autism Acceptance Month and Sexual Assault Prevention Month this April, the Pennsylvania Association for Rational Sexual Offense Laws (PARSOL) has released a new report focusing on individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other intellectual and developmental disabilities who are involved in sexual offense cases.

Treatment Models and Advocacy for One’s Own Care

March 11, 2024April 11, 2024

📅 Date: Friday, April 5, 2024🕖 Time: 7:00 PM (EST)💲 Free for PARSOL members, or $10 (includes one-year introductory membership) In this session, Dr. Jennifer Weeks, a distinguished expert in the field of sexual addiction and “sex offender” treatment programs, will delve into treatment models and the crucial aspect of advocating for one’s own treatment. Gain valuable insights and strategies…

Scams Against PA Megan’s Law Registrants You Need to Know About

January 29, 2024March 26, 2024

Getting a phone call from someone identifying themselves as a law enforcement officer with the “Pennsylvania Megan’s Law” office informing you of an “issue” with your registration and getting some sort of threat is a terrifying experience. Most people forced to register are doing their best to comply with the PA SORNA Registry. Data from the Pennsylvania State Police shows…

RESCINDED: No Job for You!

September 24, 2023September 24, 2023

When hiring employees, companies often strive to build a workforce that reflects their values, promotes diversity, and supports community integration. One often-overlooked demographic in the hiring process is re-entering citizens, particularly those with a history of sex offenses. While this may raise concerns for some, it’s essential to consider the merits of providing second chances to individuals who have served…