N.C. House committee examining sex offender law after 10 years

By GARY D. ROBERTSON
Associated Press Writer

RALEIGH, N.C. — The first sex offenders required to register with local sheriffs in 1996 are now leaving the list, meaning it’s a good time to examine possible changes or expansions to the law, the leader of a House study panel said Tuesday.

Speakers at the first meeting of the House Select Committee on Sex Offender Registration Laws suggested several changes to the current system to better protect children and the public.

"After 10 years with technology, the movement of people, the trends in sexual (behavior) … you need to look at where you state is and where you are," said Rep. Karen Ray, R-Iredell, a co-chairwoman of the committee.

Beginning Jan. 1, 1996, people convicted of various sex-related crimes had to register with their local sheriff once they were released from prison or if they received a punishment without active prison time. Among the crimes that require registration are rape, sexual exploitation of a minor and taking indecent liberties with a child. (more…)