Standard Examiner Nov 23 1949 Sexual Crimes Local Problem, Watkins Avers A United States senator from Utah Wednesday added his views to the current wave of public sentiment against sex criminals declaring the only solution for such crimes lies with the public. Senator Arthur V. Watkins, (R Utah), made his remarks at a public clinic in Ogden following a question from Dr. Edward I. Rich, retired physician. Sen. Watkins declared it was his belief that most states have legislation to cover such crimes but that it was a matter of upholding and strengthening the law. The handling of sex criminals and molesters of children is largely a local problem, Sen. Watkins told the group present. It is a matter which must be handled on a state basis. It is up to the general public to start at the state legislatures. If they feel the laws not strong then they must enact laws that will bring these degenerates in and place them under control. Doctors Question Dr. Rich had asked Sen. Watkins if any national legislation could be enacted to control the wave of sex crimes, particularly against children. Sen. Watkins also criticized what he termed laxity of parole boards in releasing hardened criminals. I believe that investigations made all over the country prove that most crimes of a sex nature are committed by men with past criminal records. Most of them, he said, have a background of other sex offenses. This is a grave problem, Sen. Watkins added. However, I do not believe it is a problem for the federal government. If the federal government were to step in and enact legislation it would merely be duplicating that already within the power of the state and the communities. Sterner Methods In my opinion, he added, we should use sterner methods in dealing with this type of diabolical criminal. However, such movement must start with the grass roots of the public. It is for them to start the ball rolling, he concluded. Other subjects discussed at the two hour session in the municipal building included pensions and compensations for federal workers at the Ogden arsenal injured on the job or for families who have lost their bread winner due to illness contracted through work in the powder plants; socialized medicine and the compulsory medical insurance bill; flood damage on the North Fork river in valley; cooperative tax; unemployment; taxes. government spending; and watershed protection and related problems. Approximately 50 persons attended the clinic held in the Second district court room of Judge John A. Hendricks