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Static-2002 coding rules (2009) - Static-99

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Category 2: Persistence of Sexual Offending<br />

to see those basic elements of due process present in some form (exact <strong>rules</strong><br />

may vary).<br />

Definition: Index Sexual Offence<br />

Generally, the index sex offence is the most recent sex offence that results in a<br />

sentencing occasion. Sometimes the index sex offence includes multiple counts,<br />

multiple victims, and numerous crimes perpetrated at different times because of<br />

the timing of when the offender was detected and apprehended. Some offenders<br />

are apprehended after a spree of offending. If this results in a single sentencing<br />

occasion (regardless of the number of convictions), all convictions are<br />

considered part of the index sex offence.<br />

The following <strong>rules</strong> apply when there are significant events between the dates of<br />

the charge, conviction, and sentence:<br />

(a) If charged, but then charges are dropped, this does not count as a<br />

sentencing occasion.<br />

(b) If charged, then put on bail conditions while awaiting further court action,<br />

then eventually convicted, the conviction date counts as a sentencing<br />

occasion.<br />

(c) If charged, and there is a formal process that replaces further court action<br />

with alternative measures, the formal process date counts as a sentencing<br />

occasion (under the concept of an alternative sanction).<br />

(d) If convicted but not (yet) sentenced, with or without conditions attached,<br />

the conviction date counts as a sentencing occasion.<br />

(e) If convicted but sentenced at a later date, the date of conviction counts as<br />

the sentencing date.<br />

Specific examples to help identify and distinguish between an index and a prior<br />

sexual sentencing occasion are included on pages 24-29.<br />

Special Coding Issues<br />

The following definitions will provide clarity in scoring “Prior Sentencing<br />

Occasions for Sexual Offences.” For the purposes of <strong>Static</strong>-<strong>2002</strong> assessment, a<br />

sexual offence is an officially recorded illegal sexual behaviour or criminal<br />

behaviour with sexual intent.<br />

An offence need not be called “sexual” in its legal title or definition to be<br />

considered a sexual offence. Sentencing occasions that are explicitly for sexual<br />

assaults or for the sexual abuse of children are counted as sexual offences on<br />

<strong>Static</strong>-<strong>2002</strong>, regardless of the offender’s motive. Offences that directly involve<br />

illegal sexual behaviour are counted as sex offences even when the legal<br />

process has led to a non-sexual charge or conviction. An example of this would<br />

be where an offender is charged with or pleads guilty to a Break and Enter when<br />

18

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