The term SARATSO refers to evidence-based, state authorized risk assessment tools used for evaluating sex offenders.
State law established the SARATSO (State Authorized Risk Assessment Tools for Sex Offenders) Review Committee, to consider the selection of the risk assessment tools for California. Research shows that the most accurate way of predicting whether a sex offender will reoffend is by utilizing a validated risk assessment instrument.
A collaborative approach to sex offender management, known as the Containment Model, is used in California. Communication and collaboration among the supervising officer, treatment provider, and polygraph examiner are the heart of this model, which relies on ongoing communication about risk.
To learn more about SARATSO and the legislation that governs our work, please refer to Penal Code 290.04 - 290.09.