What to know about Wisconsin’s sex offender registry.
Being convicted of a sex offense in Wisconsin carries life-changing consequences. One of those consequences is being required to register as a sex offender.
Let's dive into Wisconsin's sex offender registry. It's a pretty important piece of legislation aimed at public safety, and understanding how it works is key. The main statute that lays it all out is Section 301.45, Wisconsin Statutes.
Registering as a sex offender
So, when does a court have to order someone to register as a sex offender? Generally speaking, if a person is convicted of or found not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect of a sex offense, the court doesn't have much wiggle room. Registration is mandatory. The statute spells out a long list of these offenses, ranging from first-degree sexual assault to child enticement. It also includes situations where someone is convicted of a non-sex offense but the underlying conduct was found by the court to be sexually motivated.
There are exceptions to becoming a registered sex offender
Now, are there any exceptions? Yep, there are a few instances where someone convicted of a sex offense might *not* be required to register. One notable exception involves juvenile adjudications. If someone was found delinquent as a juvenile for a sex offense, they generally aren't required to register as an adult. However, there are exceptions to this exception for certain serious juvenile offenses. Another key exception relates to cases where the court specifically finds that the person is not a danger to others. This usually involves a thorough evaluation and a judicial determination that the risk of re-offense is low enough to warrant waiving the registration requirement.
What is required if you are registered as a sex offender
Okay, so someone is on the registry – what does that actually mean for them? There are several obligations and restrictions they need to be aware of. First and foremost, they have to provide certain personal information, like their name, address, date of birth, and sometimes even vehicle information and employment details. This information needs to be kept up-to-date, so if they move or change jobs, they have a responsibility to notify the Department of Corrections within a specific timeframe.
Beyond providing information, there can be restrictions on where registered individuals can live or work. For example, they might be prohibited from living within a certain distance of schools, daycare centers, or other places where children commonly gather. These restrictions can vary depending on the specific offense and the individual's risk assessment.
It's also worth noting that the registry information is publicly accessible in Wisconsin. This is intended to help the public stay informed and take steps to protect themselves and their families. However, it also means that individuals on the registry face significant challenges in terms of social stigma and finding housing or employment.
In a nutshell, Wisconsin's sex offender registry is a mandatory requirement for most individuals convicted of sex offenses, with limited exceptions. Being on the registry comes with ongoing obligations to provide and update personal information, and it can also involve restrictions on where someone can live or work. It's a complex area of law with significant implications for both public safety and the individuals required to register.
Contact an attorney to learn more about sex offense consequences in Wisconsin.
If you are accused of a sex offense in Wisconsin, you must consult with an attorney. Do not try to face it alone. We at Valley View Law have defended clients all over Wisconsin from serious accusations of sex offenses. Set up a meeting with Tripp Stroud at Valley View Law to discuss your sex offense case.
