Upholding Accuracy and Ethical Practice in Assessing the Reoffense Risk of Sexual Offenders Using Actuarial Instruments: A Rejoinder to Campbell

Discussion continues as to how best to assess risk for sexual reoffense. The Static- 99/Static-99R is currently the most commonly used actuarial measure of sexual offense risk potential. Its prolific use in sexual offender civil commitment proceedings, which are highly contentious in and of themselves, has generated healthy debate as to its relative utility. Campbell and DeClue (2010) suggested that the Positive Predictive Value associated with Static-99/Static-99R scores is inadequate and that there are several other limitations inherent in using this instrument. Wilson and Looman (2010) responded, seeking to clarify issues associated with predictive accuracy, normative samples, and best practice in actuarial risk assessment. DeClue and Campbell (2010) and Campbell (2010) provided responses to Wilson and Looman. This brief paper addresses concerns regarding the Campbell (2010) response