Tool puts data in parents' hands.
One purpose of sex offender registration has always been to help
residents know if a dangerous person lives near them so they can
protect their children or themselves. However, often there is no
easy way for residents to find out who's on the list or where they
live. The Greenville County Sheriff's Office last week unveiled a
welcome tool that streamlines that process.
Offender Watch, a database that's now part of the GCSO's Web site
(http://www.gcso.org/), includes the list of all
750 registered sex offenders in Greenville County. Residents can
enter their address and get a list of any registered offenders
within a mile of that location. They also can sign up for an e-mail
alert that will notify them if a sex offender moves within that
radius. The program also provides information about each of the
registered offenders.
The department bought the program mostly with fees sex offenders
must pay when they register. That's certainly an acceptable use of
such funds. No matter how easy to use this tool is, though, most
important will be keeping the database current. The department also
will need to ensure the system is pertinent to everyone in the
county -- with the rapid development of this county, keeping new
addresses and neighborhoods in the database could be a challenge.
|
Advertisement
|
 |
Any way law enforcement can make this information more available
to parents is positive. Offender Watch can be a powerful tool for
those who want to know what dangers their children may face, even in
their own back yard.
|
Greer
Top
Stories, Breaking News
