Sex Offenders

Sex Offender Registration Act (Megan's Law)

The Sex Offender Registration Act (Megan's Law), established under Correction Law Article 6-C, created a sex offender registry within the Division of Criminal Justice Services to protect communities and assist law enforcement. Effective January 21, 1996, it applies to persons under sentence on that date or any convictions on or after. It includes almost all Penal Law Article 130 offenses and select others. Offenders are designated a risk level by either the sentencing court or a correctional facility if incarcerated.

Registered sex offenders are placed in one of three categories:

• Level 1 – low risk of repeat offense
• Level 2 – moderate risk of repeat offense
• Level 3 – high risk of repeat offense and a threat to public safety exists

Level 1 offenders must register for 20 years. Level 2 and 3 offenders register for life. Offenders have specific responsibilities under the act. More information can be found on the New York State Office of Probation and Correctional Alternatives (OPCA) website.

Supervision

For probation supervision, a sex offender is anyone convicted of a sex offense or an offense with an underlying sexual component. This includes both registered and non-registered offenders, as well as Youthful Offenders. Madison County supervises sex offenders on probation. These offenders are subject to a specific set of probation conditions developed with the Madison County Sex Offender Treatment Team, based on national best practices for community supervision. Offenders must cooperate with sex offender treatment.

FAQs

For answers to frequently asked questions about Megan's Law, visit the New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services FAQ page.

Tips

To report tips or information regarding sex offenders currently on probation, contact the Madison County Probation Department.