Share news tips with us here at Hivisasa

Locals have been called upon to accept ex-convicts and help them fit back into the societies.

Kisii based criminology expert, Donna Khisa said victimisation by the locals may make the ex-convicts turn back into criminal behavior.

"Ones past history does not necessarily define a person. Most of the convicts get to know where they went wrong and correct their behavior," said Khisa.

"When we discriminate against them they will feel out of place in our societies and some will prefer to go back to prison which may make them hardcore criminals,” added Khisa.

He said the society have a role in shaping each and every individual especially criminals.

"Involve them in community-based projects that will help them mingle with the community in a constructive way," he said.

"This will help them have a sense of attachment to their community and a sense of mutual responsibility among everybody,” he added.

He also said that no one is a criminal until the society labels him.

"Be very cautious how you relate to this people. The more you label them as deviants, they will deviate,” he cautioned.