[legion]

150 years ago, you could move west, change your name, reinvent yourself, and leave your past behind. I think this worked out well for people that really wanted to change. On the other hand, criminals who had no intention of reforming could always find a new pool of victims.

Now your misdeeds follow you for life. This works well against criminals who have no intention of reforming. It works out poorly for people who want to change.

I don't think there are any magic solutions here. Every solution has some advantages and some massive downsides.