The Watch House

Challenge:

Few issues arouse more public scrutiny and ire than managing sex offenders within communities. That’s why The Watch House, a nonprofit dedicated to sex offender management, felt compelled to enter the political dialogue in defense of controversial language in Colorado House Bill 10-1364. The phrase, “no known cure” (for sex offenders), had polarized the legislature, with both sides arguing with equal vehemence for its removal or retention.

Solution:

But that seemingly innocuous concept is crucial to effectively managing sex offenders, so Philosophy developed a strategy to create public opposition through conventional and social media outlets. We wrote and filmed three videos that articulated The Watch House’s position, featuring a victim, a therapist, and the Watch House’s executive director. Philosophy also created Facebook and Twitter accounts to keep our audiences abreast of our efforts. We worked with the media to create a public outcry, arguing that Colorado was weakening its sex offender laws.

Results:

Ultimately, Governor Bill Ritter heard our message and vetoed removing the language. Today, Colorado’s sex offender laws remain some of the toughest in the country – a true success for victims and for our client.