By G:
I was convicted in 2/99 and have had good jobs up until the online registry was invented in 2002 - since then I have had no luck with jobs in the state of Wisconsin where I was convicted. Now I moved to Florida in 2006 - reported my whereabouts to Wisconsin. Now, Florida charged me with failure to register in 2/2009 anyway, even though I continued my registration requirements in WI. I was found guilty for living in Florida. The point is I do not have to continue to register annually in the state in which I was convicted, however, I have to register semi-annually here. I had my rights restored in the state I was convicted, but Florida wont restore my rights here. Wow talk about a screwed up system.
This is a prime example of the fact that it is IMPERITIVE for all registered offenders to thoroughly research sex offender laws, restrictions,and ordinances PRIOR to moving to, or even VISITING, a different state other than the one they are currently registered in. There are so many variables in laws between each State, an innocent oversight can have a person charged with a felony offense. It is common knowledge that ignorance of the law is no defense, and rarely will you find a prosecutor willing to cut a registered offender ANY slack. I am not a lawyer or giving legal advise. Please contact an attorney familiar with registration laws BEFORE you move. PEACE, and God's LOVE to all.
ReplyDeleteAs to moving or traveling between states following a conviction for a sex crime. In the Community Room is a page explaining everything one must do when moving or traveling to a state other than their state of conviction: http://eadvocate-community.blogspot.com/2011/08/topic-moving-from-one-state-to-another.html
ReplyDeleteThat page also explains the "Restoration of Rights" problem which is generally misunderstood. It appears this fellow was very lucky with the Florida Failure to Register charge, because there was a possibility of being civilly committed (FL is a civil commitment state) and it looks like FL did not go that far with this fellow.
eAdvocate
Thanks E. I hadn't seen the updated page in the community room. Good job!
ReplyDelete