Five Myths About Sex Offender Registries

July 6, 2005 -- -- Though federal law requires all states to have sex offender registries, there are different laws governing them in each state. Here are five common misconceptions about the lists, from PedoWatch.org, a group dedicated to increasing awareness about threats to children from sexual predators.

Myth No. 1 — All sex offenders are required to register as sex offenders.

Each state has its own guidelines regarding which sex crimes qualify for requiring a person to register as a sex offender. Not all sex offenders are required to register. Many states do not have a penalty for failure to register for those who are required to register. It also greatly depends on what the offender pleaded guilty to or was convicted of, too. A person who broke into a home, stole some jewelry and raped a victim may have pleaded guilty to a robbery-related crime and any rape charges were dismissed.

Myth No. 2 — All states have one central registry where information from cities and counties is sent.

Some states do a very good job of collecting information from each city and county and adding it to one central state sex offender registry. But many states do not have a central registry, so you would need to check local city and county records for sex offender information.

Myth No. 3 — Sex offender registration is permanent.

Not always. Many times an offender is only required to register as a sex offender for a certain length of time. If he does not re-offend and completes his sentencing requirements in that length of time, he may no longer be required to register as a sex offender.

Myth No. 4 — People are entitled to all sex offender information and notification that an offender is moving to their neighborhood.

Some states do notify residents that a sex offender is moving into the neighborhood, while others do not. Many cities, counties and states require that you show proof of residency and require that you be a resident in the area where you would like sex offender information. There are often fees included as well.