An Indiana bill aimed at strengthening safeguards on where sex offenders can live has been signed into law by the governor.
The legislation was authored by state Rep. Ben Smaltz, R-Auburn.
House Enrolled Act 1687 reinforces probation requirements for sex offenders who want to move to another county. It also adds new factors for judges to consider before approving a relocation.
Those factors include whether the offender has close family ties—such as a spouse, parent, or adult child—in the area, along with stable housing and employment opportunities.
The move must also be approved by a judge in the offender’s prospective new county. This ensures local law enforcement is informed of the relocation.
Smaltz emphasized that protecting the safety and well-being of Hoosier communities remains a top priority.
” Hmm we consider this person dangerous and a high risk to re-offend, so let’s cut off all ties of support making things more difficult all because one has a sex offense.”
Residency, Presence, and other restrictions aren’t effective causing more problems for the community, however lawmakers in Indiana and other states have nothing but Ignorant Air between their ears.
Can anyone say government overreach? If a judge has to approve a PFR request to move then theoretically that PFR is still in State custody and would qualify for any and all relief in a habeus petition.
Looking at the text of the bill it looks like this is applicable to just those on supervision.