Employers lean toward ex-cons over sex offenders

7-27-2008 National:

You're considering hiring someone with a criminal record. Risky enough. So which is probably more or a risk: an older man who committed a violent crime and then served a 20-year sentence, or the 20-something drug offender?

Go for the older man, according to Episcopal Social Services, a New York nonprofit providing services to people convicted of crimes.

"Violent offenders tend to be the better risk for an employer, because he's done his one big sentence. He's not going to do it again," said Anne Williams, a director at the agency.

She also said the formerly imprisoned generally make excellent employees.

"Individuals who have been imprisoned are highly motivated," Williams said. "The work ethic they get in prison is very strong. Employers can save on training costs."

Prisons often provide vocational training, and many prisoners earn advanced degrees while doing their time.

But sex offenders and arsonists are off-limits to Episcopal Social Services' employment services. Many jobs, including those dealing with "vulnerable populations" such as the elderly and young children, are also not permitted for people with criminal records.

Employers can get a federal tax credit of up to $2,400 a year for each formerly incarcerated employee, if he or she is less than a year out of prison. ..News Source.. by Tali Arbel