Union County gets tougher with sexual predators, offenders

Union County gets tougher with sexual predators, offenders

 

Most would be concerned when they hear a sexual predator has taken up residence in your county or community. Citizens in Union County let their elected officials know just how concerned they were when two newly released sexual predators moved into local neighborhoods this year. Both moved out of the county, but county officials have taken steps to make sure that Union county residents are as safe as possible.

Registered sexual predators have stipulations as to where they can reside, such as not within 1,000 feet of a school, park, daycare, or other place where children regularly gather. However, the law also allows communities to impose stronger sanctions.

The Union County Commission had requested the Sheriff’s Office draft a county plan with stricter restrictions for sexual offenders and predators living in the county. At the last meeting, Lt. Doug York presented the amended ordinance prohibiting offenders or predators from residing or traveling within 2,500 feet of school, daycare center, park or playgrounds. The ordinance also prohibits property owners within the restricted areas from renting to sexual predators.

The new ordinance was passed unanimously 5-0.