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In prison culture, individuals convicted of child sex crimes are often viewed negatively by other inmates. This perspective stems from a hierarchical system of moral codes among prisoners, in which crimes against children are considered among the most reprehensible. The specific terminology and categorization can vary by region, facility, and even over time, but here are some common negative categories or labels that might be used within the prison system to refer to individuals convicted of such offenses:
- “Chomo” or “Chester” – Slang terms derived from “child molester.” These are pejorative terms widely used in U.S. prisons.
- “Sex Offender” – A legal designation, but when used in prison, it carries a heavy stigma and groups individuals convicted of sexual crimes, including those against children, into a broadly despised category.
- “Rock Spider” – A term used in some prisons, particularly in Australia, to describe child sex offenders. The term implies that like a spider, the individual preys on the weak.
- “Tree Jumper” – Another derogatory term that is sometimes used to refer to individuals convicted of sex crimes against children.
- “Short Eyes” – Prison slang primarily used in the Northeastern United States to denote someone in prison for child molestation. The term is believed to originate from the idea that these individuals look at (“eye”) children (“short” for their height).
- “Baby Raper” – A highly derogatory term used to specifically indicate those convicted of raping children. This label is among the most despised within the prison hierarchy.
These categories are not exhaustive, and the specific terms used can vary significantly between different prisons and cultures within those prisons. It’s also important to note that the negative perception of individuals convicted of sex crimes against children can lead to their segregation from the general prison population, both for their protection and due to the moral outrage their crimes provoke among other inmates. This segregation often places them at the bottom of the unofficial prison hierarchy, leading to a higher risk of violence from other inmates. Without punishment vigilantly justice occurs by natural human response to the reprehensibility of this type of crime.