(Undated) -- Several groups are addressing the issue of the protests that have been taking place daily for nearly a week in front of convicted child rapist Richard Gardner's new Providence residence. The group, including the Rhode Island ACLU, has put out a statement saying it understands the concerns raised about Gardner's presence, but says the law is clear that he has the right to live there and calls upon elected officials to not fan the flames of fear. The statement says recent legislation passed by Rhode Island lawmakers has contributed to the cycle of sex offenders becoming homeless and living in shelters, which represents a decrease in safety. Meanwhile, multiple media outlets reported Gardner got married at a backyard ceremony at a home in Cranston on Saturday.