Brunswick County looks to renew funding for sex offender rehab program

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Brunswick County wants to continue grant funding for their sex offender rehabilitation program for low level offenders. The grant they are applying for is for $20,000.

The program was started in 2012 and is the only of its kind in the state according to Superior Court Judge Ola Lewis. It is based on the drug court model. Lewis said the 24-month treatment program is aimed to help sex offenders from committing similar crimes again, but more importantly it’s about keeping communities safe.

“Our goal is community safety first. And by mandating the treatment and ensuring attendance, in that folk are fully engaged, that helps us in terms of how we live, work and play,” said Lewis.

According to Lewis, if an offender fails to comply, the sanctions are swift and immediate. She said that people have been sent to the Department of Corrections for not following the rules.