Many sex crimes are subject to a compulsory listing on the Sex Offender Registry, and both federal and New York laws enforce this requirement. This registry is available to the public, and anyone with an Internet connection can browse photographs, vehicles, addresses and descriptions of listed sex offenders. This penalty is both traumatic and life changing, which tempts many to avoid registering.
However, serious penalties await those who fail to register, refuse to verify information, or supply law enforcement with false details. A criminal lawyer in White Plains can help you understand the consequences of not registering. Call the Law Offices of Darren DeUrso at 914-772-8614 for advice.
In the meantime, here are two reasons to comply with sex offender registration laws:
- There are strict penalties for failure to register as a sex offender.
The New York legislature includes a long list of “registerable sex offenses,” and in the event of a conviction, placement on the registry is not negotiable. These offenses vary from A-1 felonies, such as first-degree kidnapping, to Class B misdemeanors, such as third-degree sexual abuse.
Convicted sex offenders must register for a specific duration, as the Sex Offender Registration Act explains. Low-risk offenders with a Level 1 classification must register for at least 20 years, unless there are specified exceptions. Level 3 offenders present the highest risk and must register for life. Regardless of an offender’s risk level classification, penalties are always severe for those who do not register.
A sex offender who fails to comply becomes guilty of a Class E felony for a first-offense conviction, or a Class D felony for a second or subsequent offense. A Class E felony can result in a four-year prison sentence, and a Class D felony could come with seven years behind bars.
- Not registering will affect your parole and probation.
Although failure to register can result in a felony, this is not your only worry. Violating the Sex Offender Registration Act will have negative consequences on your probation or parole. Qualifying for either parole or probation requires strict compliance with certain rules, such as avoiding drug use, drug possession and additional arrests.
Sex offenders have unique parole requirements. These include avoiding any places that children under the age of 18 frequent, such as schools and playgrounds, without permission from your Parole Officer. Additionally, you may not work for, operate or dispense goods from any ice cream facilities because children typically use them.
If you break these rules without proper authorization, you will be in violation of your parole, which could lead to parole revocation. You will face the same consequences for failing to register. Similar penalties are likely for sex offenders on probation. If you do not register, the court may revoke your probation and send you to jail.
If you are facing charges related to a sex offense, your entire future may be at stake. A criminal attorney may be able to structure a defense that mitigates the penalties.
The Law Offices of Darren DeUrso can explain the Sex Offender Registration Act, along with the consequences of ignoring the order to register. Call 914-772-8614 to discuss your circumstances in a free initial consultation.