When a person is convicted of a sex crime, he or she is often required to be named on the sex offender registry for his or her state. This registry is made public for people to access so that they are aware if anyone convicted of sex offenses resides in the neighborhoods where they live and work. Failing to keep one’s registry information current can lead to serious consequences, as one man in New York is learning.
Even those convicted of the lowest level of sexual crimes may have their names on the public registry for 20 years or more. Once registered, a person is required to keep his or her information current and to report any changes of address or internet providers, as well as employment or affiliation with colleges or universities. A man who had previously been convicted of failing to register a new screen name and IP address was recently arrested when a citizen allegedly tipped off police.
Because of his previous felony convictions, the man’s current charge is considered a class D felony. Additionally, he faces a parole violation. These two circumstances mean the man will be held without bail in a New York jail. His original conviction was for a Level 1 offense, which means authorities have determined it is not likely he will re-offend.
All convictions for sex offenses, even so-called low-level crimes, may carry lifelong consequences. This man’s attorney is likely examining the evidence to build a strong defense. He may ask the judge to consider the low level of the original offense. With the help of an attorney who is knowledgeable and experienced in defending sex crimes, the man has a better chance of a positive outcome for his situation.
Source: thelcn.com, “Registered sex offender facing felony after allegedly failing to update status“, Oct. 4, 2016
