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Privatization of Va. Sex Offender Program Opposed

Posted: 2:15 AM Jul 31, 2012

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) -- Eleven organizations are urging Virginia to reject proposals to privatize a facility that detains some sex offenders after they've served their sentence.

They say the problems of an overcrowded Virginia Center for Behavioral Rehabilitation could be worsened if operations are turned over to a company that puts profits ahead of programs. State officials are considering privatization as a way to control costs of the rapidly expanding civil commitment program for treatment of sexually violent offenders. Two companies have offered bids to take over the Burkeville psychiatric facility.

The coalition of civil rights, labor, criminal justice reform and religious organizations sent its letter of opposition to Gov. Bob McDonnell on Monday. However, the governor's office says the decision rests with the commissioner of the Department of Behavioral Health and Rehabilitative Services.