A new report from the State Auditor’s office finds that the state’s Sex Offender Registry Board has dramatically improved the sex offender classification process in Massachusetts over the past five years but is still failing to consistently collect registration fees.
The audit noted that the Sex Offender Registry Board had reduced 71% of the backlog in classifying sex offenders by streamlining the classification process and increasing the amount of hearing sites in the state from 7 to 38. The SORB also cut the average time it takes to classify an offender from one year to 180 days and now re-registers 95% of classified offenders in the database.
“The Sex Offender Registry Board has made substantial strides in helping to protect communities by registering sex offenders quicker,” said Auditor Bump. “But SORB must continue to refine its systems and procedures to ensure better performance of this important public safety function,” said Auditor Suzanne Bump.
The audit found that the registry was currently not collecting the required $75 registration fee from more than 40 percent of offenders. But the report notes that five years ago virtually no money was being collected because the registry’s authority to collect the fees was in dispute.
The Sex Offender Registry Board’s streamlining can come at a disadvantage for individuals facing sex offender classification in Massachusetts as it significantly reduces the amount of time you have to prepare for a hearing. If you are a facing sex offender classification in Massachusetts and have questions regarding your Massachusetts sex offender classification or want assistance in reviewing or seeking sex offender reclassification, you need a Boston sex offender attorney. Please contact Attorney Crouch at (617) 441-5111 or email him to set up a free, initial consultation. To request further information please contact us.
