Change in process for notification of sex offenders

May 14, 2008 10:03 am

— By KANDACE MCCOY
kandace.mccoy@register-news.com
MT. VERNON — Due to new laws that will be in effect June 1, and in an effort to expedite notification of registered sex offenders, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Depart-ment has announced that such notices will now be sent electronically through e-mail.
Effective June 1, all registered sex offender community notifications that the JCSO will be doing in compliance with the Sex Offender Community Notification Law, 730 ILCS 152, will be done by electronic mail, according to information from Sheriff Roger Mulch.
Notices cost the JCSO “between $40-$50,” each quarter they are mailed, Mulch explained, with about 60 to 70 agencies or organizations on the mailing list. And with electronic information the “wave” of current communication, he said information can be sent out much more quickly. “It’s more timely, efficient and easier in the long run for us to do,” he said.
Organizations in the following categories located within Jefferson County are considered a qualified recipient and organization and must contact the JCSO to be put on a listing of persons notified:
— Boards of institutions of higher education
— School boards of public school districts
— Principals of nonpublic schools
— Child care facilities sponsored by Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
— Public libraries
— Public housing agencies
— Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
— Social service agencies providing services to minors
— Volunteer organizations providing services to minors.
Organizations should send an e-mail to RSO@jeffil.us and in the subject line type “Community Notification.” In the body of the e-mail list name or the agency or organization, mailing address, telephone number, and contact person. You will receive an e-mail response as confirmation that you have been added to the electronic notification listing.
If entities do not have e-mail capability, they should contact the JCSO at 244-8004 to make arrangements to receive notifications.