The state has two prison programs for sex offenders.

The more intensive one at the New Hampshire State Prison lasts 18 months and is for moderate- to high-risk offenders. The men live in the same cellblock as part of a "therapeutic community," which essentially allows them to "call each other on their behavior," said Daniel Millis, the interim director.

There are about 85 offenders in the program.

The less intensive one lasts six months and is for those deemed at low risk to re-offend. There are now about 15 men in the program.

The men do not live in the same unit but gather twice a week at the state prison. Sex offenders must complete the programs to be paroled. They begin their program toward the end of their minimum release date, before returning to the community.

The state has three prison programs:

• A high-intensity program in St. Albans for sex offenders who are classified as moderate- to high-risk and have prior convictions for violent or sex crimes.

There are 48 beds, and the program lasts two to three years, with eight or more hours of treatment a week.

• A moderate-intensity program in Springfield for offenders who are classified as moderate- to high-risk but do not have prior convictions for violent or sex crimes.

There are 27 beds, and the program lasts one to two years, with four or more hours of treatment per week.

• A low-intensity program in Springfield will be established this year for up to 20 offenders who are classified as low-risk.

The program will last six months and involve two hours of treatment per week.

Treatment programs are available to any sex offender incarcerated for at least eight months, said Corrections Commissioner Rob Hofman. Treatment is not mandatory but it is required if offenders want to get out at their minimum release dates.

Offenders who do not participate must serve their maximum sentence.

Sex offender treatment includes:

• Group sessions aimed at helping offenders change their attitudes and learn how to cope more effectively with the triggers that prompted their crimes.

• Strategies for controlling deviant urges.

• Courses designed to help them empathize with their victims.