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Paedophiles could be given compulsory chemical castration if considered high risk for re-offending

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Paedophiles could be given compulsory chemical castration if considered high risk for re-offending

The measures are under investigation following the formation of a specialist governmental group in Australia
A task force has been created to look into the possibility of chemical castration for convicted paedophiles.

Although critics, including psychiatrists, say that the move would be unethical, New South Wales in Australia is reviewing the possibility of anti-libidinal treatments in their penal system.

It’s thought chemical castration or sexual suppression medication could be offered as an alternative sentencing option for courts.

Justice Minister for the region Troy Grant told NT News: “One of the worrying statistics that came out of our investigation is that up to 17% of child sex offenders are likely to reoffend in two years.

“Anti-libidinal medication alone is not a cure-all, but I want to make sure we make the very best possible use of it, combined with other strong measures, to prevent reoffending.

“If we make can make improvements that save just one child from this horrendous crime, it will be worth it.”

However, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists will on countenance compulsory treatments in this vein.

Forensic psychiatrist Dr John Kasinathan said: “The prescription of anti-androgenic medication [which lower testosterone] is a clinical decision and relies on medical knowledge and specific knowledge of the patient in question.”

Chemical castration is currently used in Australia on a voluntary basis, New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria courts can order child sex offenders nearing the end of their sentence to be assessed for the drug if they are still considered to be risk of re-offending.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/paedophiles-could-given-compulsory-chemical-6324262

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