In 1947, California implemented the nation’s first sex offender registration program to help track the whereabouts of persons convicted of specified sex crimes. The registration process is for life unless the offender is relieved of the responsibility through the legal process. Information concerning the location of sex offenders has always been available to law enforcement but not until 1996, after the passage of Megan’s Law, was information made available to the public. Now the public can access information on registered Serious and High Risk Sex Offenders by accessing the Megan’s Law CD-ROM. The information is updated monthly by the Department of Justice.

In order to view the CD-ROM, you must come to the Riverside Police Department at 4102 Orange Street, Riverside, CA 92501.

Requirements for use:

• Viewer must be at least 18 years of age

• Provide positive identification (California driver’s license or identification card)

• Sign a waiver

• Viewer must not be a registered sex offender

Unlike the Sex Offender Identification Line, you do not need an exact name to check on a sex offender. The CD-ROM can be run by providing a name, county, or zip code.

You will be able to view the following information:

• Name

• A picture of the individual

• County or zip code in which the individual resides

• Physical description

• Offense for which registration was required

• Any aliases

• Scars, marks, or tattoos

The release of sex offender information to the public is to increase public safety and not to punish the offender. The information may not be used to harass the offender or commit any crime against that person.

 

Click here to access the Sate of California's Megan's Law database.