The sex offenders registry contains information about people convicted of sexual offers. All fifty states in the US and the District of Columbia (and some European countries) have a sex offenders list that is open to the public. However, some information is visible to law enforcement alone.

There are plenty of reasons you may want to conduct a sex offender search or find out whether or not there are sex offenders near you. Fortunately, that information is freely available, and you have every right to look up more data if you feel the need to.

Why does the sex offenders registry exist?

The sex offender registry was initially designed as a sex offenders map. It enables you to find out whether or not there are registered sex offenders in your area so that precautions can be taken. As the world shrinks, people use these registries for research to ensure they are safe. You might use the registry in the following way:

▪ Before purchasing a house in a new neighborhood, you may want to check whether or not any registered sex offenders live near you. If you have children or feel vulnerable, you may wish not to live near registered sex offenders.

▪ Before entering into a new relationship or going on a date with someone, you might want to rule out whether or not that person was involved in a sexual crime or convicted of an offense.

▪ You may want to ensure that any people in your employ (e.g., nannies, gardeners, cleaners) that will be around your children were not convicted of sexual offenses against minors.

Sex offender registries contain information, including the offender’s address, physical appearance, and criminal history. While the sex offenders registry has been subject to some controversy, it’s a helpful tool if you are concerned about your family's safety.

Who has to register?

Any individual convicted of certain sex crimes is required to register. Individuals convicted of violent crimes must remain registered for longer and have to update their addresses more often. Failure to register as a sex offender comes with penalties. If an unregistered sex offender is convicted of a new violent federal crime, their sentence may be increased by up to thirty years. However, the system isn’t perfect, and many perpetrators do not keep their information updated. Using a public records search can help keep you in the loop.

What should I do if I find out a sex offender lives nearby?

Remember that someone is a registered sex offender may not mean that you are in danger, but taking necessary precautions is essential. Don’t confront the offender or identify them publicly to others. Instead, take the opportunity to speak to your family (particularly your children) about stranger danger. Teach them to be cautious of strangers and about speaking up if something doesn’t feel right. Make sure they know never to follow a stranger or enter a house or car without your permission.

If you do want your children to stay far away from a person on the registry, make sure you explain your reasons in an age-appropriate way, e.g., “This person may not be safe,” or “We don’t speak to people we don’t know because they may not be safe.” You should teach your children not to do favors for other adults or to accept treats from them. If an adult asks for help, they should decline and fetch one of their parents instead.

You should also take some time to familiarize yourself with your state or county’s sex offender rules. Some areas may have community meetings where updates are offered about newly registered offenders.