The federal government requires sex felons to register so that authorities can keep track of them and also provide information to the public about sex offenders. Many states, including Minnesota, have websites that provide names of sex offenders, and people often choose their homes based on the amount of sex felons who live in the area.
Sex Offender Registry
The biggest punishment for those convicted of a child pornography charge is the requirement that they register with the state’s sex offender registry. This registration requirement may last for 10 years to life, depending on the offense. Those required to register must provide personal information about themselves, including where they live, work, and go to school. Sex offenders are also required to submit recent photographs of themselves to law enforcement on a regular basis.
In Minnesota, this registry is referred to as the “predatory offender” registration. In addition to those convicted of child pornography charges, other crimes that require mandatory registration include:
- Criminal sexual conduct
- Murder involving criminal sexual conduct
- Felony indecent exposure
- Kidnapping
- False imprisonment
- Soliciting a minor to engage in prostitution or sexual conduct
- Using a minor in a sexual performance
Minnesota Sex Offender Attorney
Convicted sex offenders must update their registration if they move. Failure to do so can result in a felony. Even if an offender moves across state lines and forgets to register, he or she faces potential jail time, as well as supervised release.
Some laws even forbid offenders from living or working within 1,000 feet of schools, day cares, churches, swimming pools, and bus stops.
Sexual offenses are some of the most severe crimes in Minnesota. Not only do offenders face jail time and fines, there is also a certain social stigma attached to these offenses. Unfortunately, the public looks down on people charged with sex crimes, even though the law clearly states that everyone is to be considered innocent until proven guilty.
For these reasons, it is essential to speak with a seasoned Minnesota defense attorney in Anoka County if charged with a criminal sexual conduct offense.
