Mythical Divide between Collateral and Direct Consequences of Criminal Convictions: Involuntary Commitment of Sexually Violent Predators
Abstract
Thomas Steele pleaded guilty to rape and other charges in exchange for a sentence of twelve to thirty years in a Massa- chusetts state prison.' Shortly before he became eligible for pa- role on this criminal conviction, the state classified Steele as a "sexually dangerous person." Although Steele has completed his prison sentence, the state continues to confine him under a Massachusetts law that allows for the involuntary civil com- mitment of "sexually dangerous persons." The order commit- ting him stated that he could be held for a period ranging from one day to life.
This paper has been withdrawn.