Well, I'd rather people like this die than take a chance on them getting out and ruining any more lives. Obviously, neither scenario is the preferred one, but I have zero sympathy for child molesters. I know, I know, they have deep-seeded problems that require serious help, but considering the high rate of recidivism with such offenders, I am always for erring on the side of caution, especially when it comes to children.
Given treatment chesters have one of the lowest recidivism rates in CJ. It's when they're dumped in with the sodomites that they become habitual offenders (like pretty much every other criminal). Their higher recidivism rate thing was manufactured by people with a vested interest in keeping people terrified of bogeymen (FOX, CCA, any politician with an election coming up).
Link?
Also, I don't think child molesters can be shrugged off as (imaginary) boogeymen. I agree that just tossing them in prison with the lowest of the low does them no good as far as rehabilitation, but what is the alternative? Giving treatment to every sex offender, in the hopes that some change their ways, would probably cost a fortune. Granted, given all of the money this country wastes on everything else, it might not be a bad way to go, but given how many jump to the "Ban guns!" mantra every time there is a violent crime instead of focusing on the real issue, it's clear that many in this country have little interest in mental health. Despite what I said, I actually do, but I am just apprehensive when it comes to sex offenders.