February 13, 2024 | Sex Crimes
A conviction for a sex crime can result in severe criminal penalties. For example, you may be ordered to pay a fine and be sentenced to jail time.
Additionally, most sex crimes convictions in Kentucky result in the requirement to register with the sex offender registry. Convictions for rape, sexual assault, and child pornography are just a few of the crimes that result in mandatory registration requirements.
If you are required to register as a sex offender, it’s crucial to understand your obligations. Violating any requirements or failing to register could result in additional criminal penalties.
Are You Required to Notify Your Employers and Neighbors That You Are on the Kentucky Sex Offender Registry?
The sex offender registry is a matter of public record and is easy to find online. Generally, you are under no legal obligation to personally notify employers or neighbors that you are a registered sex offender.
It should be noted that employers may run a background check and uncover your status as a sex offender. Likewise, your neighbors can check the online registry to determine if you are on it.
Under Kentucky law, the Kentucky State Police have the duty of maintaining the sex offender registry on their website.
What Information Is Provided on the Sex Offender Registry in Kentucky?
The sex offender registry contains comprehensive information about the individuals convicted of a qualifying sex crime.
If you are required by law to register as a sex offender, the information on the registry includes:
- Your legal name and any known alias you have used in the past
- Your social media handles
- The address of your current residence
- Your physical description, including any identifying features
- A detailed record of all sex crimes you have committed
You are required by law to update significant changes in the information that appears on the sex offender registry. Therefore, you must notify law enforcement of your new address if you move.
Other Restrictions and Requirements for Registered Sex Offenders in Kentucky
In addition to maintaining current information for the sex offender registry, sex offenders have other requirements and restrictions they must follow. Examples include:
Location of Residence
Generally, sex offenders are prohibited from living within a certain distance from daycare facilities, schools, and other similar institutions. The intent is to protect children who are considered vulnerable members of the population.
Approval for Working and Living
You may be required to obtain approval from the corrections officer assigned to your case for your employment opportunities and living arrangements. This requirement is to ensure compliance with the regulations and restrictions on registered sex offenders.
Absolutely No Contact With Victims
You are prohibited from having any communication or contact with your past victims. Contact includes face-to-face communications, texts, emails, traditional mail, social media posts, and all other forms of electronic and personal contact.
Mandatory Evaluations
Sex offenders are required to undergo periodic psychosexual evaluations. The evaluations assess their risk levels and mental health. The results are used to tailor supervision for the individual.
Supervised Visitation
If you have minor children and you are convicted of a sex crime, the courts generally order supervised visitation. You will not be permitted to visit with your children alone.
Ban on Firearms and Alcohol
Registered sex offenders in Kentucky cannot purchase or possess firearms. They are also prohibited from consuming alcoholic beverages.
Penalties for Failing to Comply With Sex Offender Registry Requirements
Kentucky criminal statutes impose severe penalties for individuals who fail to comply with the sex offender requirements. Failing to register as a sex offender and/or update your information on the sex offender registry is a crime.
For example, if you fail to register as a sex offender or fail to update your information, you can be charged with a Class D felony. The punishment for a conviction includes a prison sentence of one to five years. If you violate the law again, you can be charged with a Class C felony, which carries a prison term of five to ten years.
In addition to lengthy prison sentences, judges may also impose fines for non-compliance with the requirements of the sex offender registry. Fines for non-compliance can go up to $10,000.
If you do not understand your requirements as a convicted sex offender or you face charges for non-compliance, you should talk with a Louisville sex crimes attorney. A criminal defense lawyer in Louisville will explain your rights and present a defense to the charges to help you avoid fines and jail time.
Contact the Louisville Sex Crimes Attorneys at Suhre & Associates, LLC For Help Today
For more information, contact the sex crimes attorneys at Suhre & Associates, LLC give us a call today at (502) 371-7000 or visit us at our Louisville Law Office.
Suhre & Associates, LLC
214 S Clay St A
Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 371-7000