Post-Release Consequences for Convicted Sex Offenders
Many people have a false idea that defendants convicted sex offenders are only subject to lengthy prison sentences and steep fines. However, those convicted of sex crimes experience life-changing devastation that extends beyond prison time and fines. In fact, such devastation can begin when a person is released from prison and typically endures for life. It’s almost like they are facing another prison sentence but this time, in their own communities.
Why is that?
Certain convicted sex offenders must register in Georgia’s Sex Offender Registry upon their release. The sheriffs in the sex offender’s county of residence will be notified once the data is entered into the system, meaning they will keep a close eye on the sex offender. In addition, the state’s Sex Offender Registry is available to the public, meaning anyone (employers, landlords, etc.) can access an offender’s personal information for community safety purposes.
This includes:
- Full name
- Aliases
- Gender
- Race
- Year of birth
- Height/weight
- Hair/eye color
As a result, sex offenders can never truly enjoy their privacy. Society looks down upon this group, which is humiliating and results in barriers to valuable opportunities such as:
- Employment
- Housing
- Education
- Loans/financial aid
- Time with family
- Recreational activities
After learning these alarming facts, it may benefit you to learn who is required to register as a sex offender in Georgia. Before we do so, let’s examine how Georgia defines a sexual offender:
- Any individual who has been convicted of a criminal offense against a victim who is a minor or any dangerous sexual offense
- A person who has been convicted under the laws of another state or territory, under the laws of the United States, under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, or in a tribal court of a criminal offense against a victim who is a minor or a dangerous sexual offense.
- Any individual who is required to register in Georgia’s Sex Offender Registry
As such, the following sex offenders must enroll in Georgia’s Sex Offender Registry for a lifetime unless their status gets removed by a court order or other legal means:
- Individuals convicted of a dangerous sexual offense on or after July 1, 1996
- Individuals previously convicted of a criminal offense against a victim who is a minor and may be released from prison or placed on parole, supervised release, or probation on or after July 1, 1996
- Individuals who have previously been convicted of a sexually violent offense or dangerous sexual offense and may be released from prison or placed on parole, supervised release, or probation on or after July 1, 1996
- Residents of Georgia who intend to reside in this state and are convicted under the laws of another state or the United States, under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, or in a tribal court of a sexually violent offense, a criminal offense against a victim who is a minor on or after July 1, 1999, or a dangerous sexual offense on or after July 1, 1996.
- A nonresident who changes residence from another state or territory of the United States or any other place to Georgia who is required to register as a sexual offender under federal law, military law, tribal law, or the laws of another state or territory, or who has been convicted in this state of a criminal offense against a victim who is a minor or any dangerous sexual offense.
Charged with a Sex Crime in Hinesville or Hinesville?
Our sex crime defense lawyers are well-aware of the consequences that a sex crime charge and conviction can bring, which is why we stop at nothing to help minimize the impacts of our clients’ cases. At every stage of the process, we provide unwavering commitment and aggressive defense to ensure our clients have the best chances of achieving a favorable outcome in their case.
To learn more about how Balbo & Gregg, Attorneys at Law, PC can help you, contact our firm at (866) 580-3089 today!