The parents of 7-year-old Megan Kanka of New Jersey were not aware that their neighbor was a twice-convicted sex offender until he was charged with the brutal rape and murder of their daughter. Nor were the parents of 4-year-old My Ly Nghiem of Binghamton, New York aware that a three-time convicted sex offender lived and worked in their building until he was charged with the rape and murder of their daughter.

These crimes coupled with many other heinous crimes against children, prompted the passage of federal and state laws mandating the release of information necessary to protect the public from high risk sex offenders. Federal legislation was passed in 1996 encouraging states to distribute information regarding sex offenders to the public. The intent of this legislation was to allow members of the public to adequately protect themselves and their children from repeat sexual offenders. The new law greatly expanded the information local agencies may provide to the general public about registered sex offenders. Under State law, the California Department of Justice, county sheriffâs departments, and municipal police department of cities with a population of more than 200,000 shall make the CD-ROM available for viewing by the public. Be aware that registered sex offenders may have committed crimes against children and/or adults. Meganâs Law provides residents and parents the opportunity to be proactive by taking necessary precautions to protect themselves and their children from the realistic threat of high risk sex offenders.

Any information you receive about a registered sex offender must be used responsibly. Be aware that harassing or committing any type of vigilante activity against any individual registered, not only undermines the tremendous effort to bring you this information, but is a crime.

Answers to frequently asked questions can be found here.

In Calaveras County the Megan's Law CD can be viewed by appointment Monday through Friday 9am to 3 pm. Bring your drivers license or photo ID. Fifteen minutes are allowed to view the CD. If you have any questions contact Amy Schmid at 754-6500. To set up an appointment call the Calaveras County Sheriff's Department at 754-6500.