I worked with convicts inside a maximum security prison for 33 years.

Many convicts will prey upon anyone who is seen as weak. Rapists, whether of children or adults are seen as weak loners who generally have no criminal associates. They do not present a physical threat to other convicts. They have no gang affiliations.

Other convicts see them as potential prey. It has nothing to do with defending women or children. Rapists are more vulnerable than other convicts.