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Megan’s Law is a federal law requiring states to create and maintain public sex offender registries. The law was established in 1996 in response to the rape and murder of seven-year-old Megan Kanka by her neighbor, Jesse Timmendequas, who had previously been convicted of sexual assault against two young girls. Named after Megan, the law seeks to protect citizens by providing information about registered sex offenders living in their communities.
How Does Megan’s Law Work?
Each state has its own rules regarding what information is made available through its public sex offender registry. Depending on the specific requirements for each jurisdiction, this may include details such as the offender’s name, address, physical description, and any convictions for sexual offenses. In some states, information will also include the degree of risk the person poses to the community.
What is the Wetterling Act?
The Wetterling Act is a federal law that requires states to maintain sex offender registries. This act was enacted in 1994 before Megan’s Law and provided the underlying framework for the current system of public sex offender registries. It also requires convicted sex offenders to register with local law enforcement when they move or change their address.
What Are The Different Types Of Sexual Assault?
Under Megan’s Law, a registered sex offender is someone who has been convicted of a sexual offense. There are three main types of sexual assault: rape, child molestation, and statutory rape.
Rape is defined as non-consensual penetration by any body part or foreign object without the consent of the victim. Child molestation involves unwanted touching directly on a minor’s body parts or excessive contact with a minor’s clothing. Statutory rape occurs when an adult engages in sexual activity with a minor.
What Are The Penalties For Sex Offender Registration?
The penalties for failing to comply with Megan’s Law vary by jurisdiction but generally include fines and jail time. Additionally, depending on the severity of the crime, sex offenders may be required to register as such for life, meaning they must continually update their registration information with local law enforcement. They may also be subject to other restrictions on their activities and movements.
To ensure that you are aware of your rights under Megan’s Law, it is essential to discuss all your relevant issues with a knowledgeable attorney. Our experienced attorneys can provide you with the information and support you need to make informed decisions about your case. Contact us today to learn more about Megan’s Law and how it may affect you. In addition to answering questions about your case, we can help you understand the difference between types of sexual abuse that you or a loved one may have suffered and how we can help you seek justice.
