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As part of their punishment, individuals convicted of crimes of a sexual nature may find themselves on the Texas sexual offender registry. The registry is a public record and is searchable by anyone.
Crimes That Qualify for the Sex Offender Registry
Not every sex crime conviction will result in someone being put on the sex offender registry. However, if someone is convicted of the following sex crimes, they will typically have to register:
- Rape;
- Unlawful sexual contact;
- Sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault;
- Aggravated kidnapping if the intent of the abduction was to abuse the victim in a sexual manner;
- Possession or promoting child pornography; and,
- Forcing the sexual performance of a child.
This is not an exhaustive list as a judge can have some leeway when handing down certain sentences. Even so, a judge may not be allowed to reduce a sentence that avoids an individual being placed on the registry. Every case is different and may not have the same result as a similar crime.
Restrictions and Regulations for Sex Offenders
In addition to having their name on the sex offender registry, these individuals have many restrictions and regulations in place that they must follow otherwise they could find themselves incarcerated.
Examples of some of the restrictions and regulations in place include:
- Residency (offenders may only live in certain locations that are not near schools or playgrounds);
- Traveling (offenders may need permission to travel outside of the state);
- Internet access (usually for offenders who were convicted of internet sex crimes);
- Owning a firearm (Texas law states that convicted felons lose their Second Amendment right to own and bear arms until at least five years after completing their sentence);
- Employment (as the registry is public, many employers will ensure a candidate is not on that list and may not hire someone who is on the registry);
- No contact with minors (typically for offenders if their crime involved a minor); and,
- Voting (if an offender was convicted of a felony they could lose their voting rights).
Were You Charged With a Sex Crime?
Being charged with a sex crime is an extremely stressful experience. That’s why you need a compassionate, hard-fighting criminal defense team fighting for you.
The knowledgeable attorneys at The Law Offices of Jed Silverman are ready to review your case. Reach out online or by phone — (713) 597-2221 — to schedule a free consultation.