Mississippi Criminal and Family Law BlogThe sex offender registry is a tool law enforcement uses to monitor and manage convicted sex offenders. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the sex offender registry in Mississippi, including who is required to register, the offenses that require registration, the registration process, notification requirements, penalties for noncompliance, and residency restrictions near schools and daycare facilities.
Who is Required to Register?
According to Mississippi law, individuals who fall under the following categories are required to register as sex offenders in Mississippi:
- Those convicted of any sex offense or attempted sex offense.
- Those acquitted by reason of insanity for any sex offense or attempted sex offense.
- Juveniles convicted as adults or adjudicated delinquent in youth court for specific offenses involving force against the victim, excluding offenders under the age of fourteen.
- Temporary residents, nonresidents working or practicing a vocation in Mississippi, students, employees, volunteers, tradesmen, professionals, and military personnel on assignment.
Offenses Requiring Registration
Mississippi law specifies a range of offenses that require registration. Some notable offenses include:
- Kidnapping involving victims below the age of eighteen
- Statutory rape
- Rape and assault with intent to ravish
- Sexual battery
- Enticing a child for concealment, prostitution, or marriage
- Exploitation of a child
- Filming another without permission in situations with an expectation of privacy
Registration Process
There are two steps to the registration process in Mississippi. Offenders must first report to a registering agency to complete necessary forms, provide biometric data, and undergo documentation. Subsequently, offenders must personally appear at a Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS) Drivers License station, pay a registration fee, and submit the required forms. Upon completion, offenders receive a sex offender photograph card and are informed about the need for regular re-registration.
Information Required for Registration
At the time of registration, offenders must provide various information, including:
- Name and any legally changed former names
- Current and temporary residence addresses
- Employment details (date, place, address)
- Details of the offense(s) for which registration is required
- Physical description, including age, race, sex, height, weight, hair, and eye colors
- Social security number, date, and place of birth
- Driver’s license or state identification card number
- Vehicle details (if applicable)
- Offense history, treatment received for mental conditions, and more
Notifications and Reporting Requirements
Sex offenders have specific obligations to report changes in their lives to law enforcement:
- Offenders must report changes of address at least ten days before residing at a new address.
- Educational institution enrollment, employment, or vocation changes must be promptly reported.
- Changes in vehicle ownership or usage must be promptly reported.
- Any change in name, alias, or identifying information must be promptly reported.
- If an offender intends to be absent from their registered address for more than three days, they must provide a written notice to the local law enforcement agency at least three days before their departure.
- Additionally, sex offenders must appear in person at their local law enforcement agency for verification purposes. This verification typically occurs annually, but certain offenders may be required to verify more frequently based on the nature of their offense or other factors deemed relevant by law enforcement.
Failure to comply with these reporting requirements can result in serious consequences, including criminal charges and potential imprisonment. It is crucial for offenders to understand and adhere to these obligations to avoid further legal complications.
Residency Restrictions:
In Mississippi, there are residency restrictions imposed on certain categories of sex offenders. These restrictions prohibit offenders from residing within a certain distance, typically 1,500 feet, of locations where children commonly gather, such as schools, playgrounds, and daycare centers.
Finding an Attorney:
The Sex Offender Registry imposes heavy burdens on people convicted of sex crimes in Mississippi. However, just because you have been accused of a sex crime does not mean you are guilty. At Vic Carmody, Jr., P.A., we have qualified and experienced criminal defense attorneys who will fight to prove your innocence and keep you off the sex offender registry. No matter the circumstances of your case, the sooner you get in touch with a qualified criminal defense attorney, the better chance you have for a favorable outcome. Over the years, we have helped numerous offenders who have been charged with sex crimes. Please call us for a free consultation today at (601) 948 – 4444.