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Who Has To Register As A Sex Offender In Texas?
John D.
In Texas, individuals who are convicted or placed on some types of probation for sexual offenses may need to be registered as sexual offenders. The state’s registry system is governed by Chapter 62 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, which determines the detailed rules on who must register, how to register, and how long the registration lasts.
This blog clearly explains these rules to help Texas understand who the law applies to, what the obligations are, and the consequences of non-compliance.
What Is The Texas Sex Offender Registration Program?
The Texas Sex Criminal Registration Program was created to protect the public by tracking individuals who have committed sexual offenses. Managed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in collaboration with local law enforcement, the register of specific identifying information is publicly available to most offenders. The law requires that some offenders be listed, and the demands are different on the basis of the offense, offender age, and whether the offender involved a minor.
Who Must Register?
Texas law requires registration for any individual who is convicted of a reportable sex offense or placed on deferred adjudication for such an offense. These offenses include:
- Aggravated sexual assault
- Sexual assault
- Indecency with a child by contact or exposure
- Continuous sexual abuse of a small child or children
- Possession or promotion of child pornography
- Online solicitation of a minor
- Sexual performance by a child
- Trafficking of persons for sexual purposes
- Kidnapping or theft with the intention of committing a sex offense
- Repeated indecent exposure offenses
Although the court does not impose a conviction but instead grants deferred adjudication, the duty to still register. This is important because many people believe that they have avoided registration by accepting a petition that does not include prison time, but it is not always true under the Texas law.
What About Out-Of-State or Federal Offenders?
Texas also needs individuals who were convicted of similar offenses in other states, federal courts, military courts or foreign jurisdiction to register if they move to Texas or start working here or start going to school. The requirement applies if the offense will be regarded as a reportable offense under Texas law.
For example, a person convicted of a qualifying offense in Louisiana who moves to Texas will have to register within seven days of establishing a residence. The same goes for someone who starts working or enrolling in a school in Texas, even though their main residence is elsewhere.
When And Where Must You Register?
A person subject to registration should report to the local law enforcement agency either within seven days to reach the office of the police department or the sheriff, being released from custody, or receiving a qualifying conviction or adjudication.
The person should confirm their personal and criminal-related information, provide identification, submit fingerprints, and have their image taken. They must also give:
- Their full name and aliases
- Date of birth, sex, race, height, weight, eye and hair color
- Social Security number
- Home and work address
- Information on vehicles and driver’s license
- E-mail address, username, and handle on social media
Any change in this information such as going to a new address or changing jobs should be reported within seven days.
How Long Does Registration Last?
Texas requires sexual criminal registration for ten years or life, depending on the severity of the crime. Here is the general breakdown:
- Lifelong registration is required for offenses such as aggravated sexual harassment, continuous sexual abuse of a child, and multiple convictions for indecency with a child or possession of child pornography.
- Ten years of registration applies to less serious, but still serious offenses, such as indecent exposure (with certain priors), online solicitation, and promoting prostitution involving minors.
The registration clock begins after the person is released from prison, parole, or supervision. This means that the ten-year period only begins once when all punishments have ended.
How Often Must You Verify Information?
How often a registrant should check with law enforcement depends on the risk level assigned:
- Low-risk (Level 1) offenders will have to confirm the information annually
- Moderate-risk (Level 2) offenders also verify annually
- High-risk (Level 3) offenders must verify every 90 days
- Offenders who are civilly committed must verify monthly
The risk level is assigned based on a standardized evaluation that assesses the individual’s criminal history, behavioral patterns, and psychological evaluation.
What Are The Penalties For Failing To Register?
Failing to follow registration rules is a criminal offense in Texas. The penalties depend on the seriousness of the failure:
- First-time failure to register is typically a state jail felony, which is punishable up to 2 years in jail and a fine of $ 10,000.
- Repeated violations or false statements can cause third-degree or even second degree felony charges
- They can be imprisoned for 20 years, based on the offender’s history and compliance level.
Failing to report address changes, job status, or online usernames can also result in charges. Intentional non-compliance is treated seriously by Texas courts.
Can Registration Be Ended Early?
Yes, registration can end early if the individual has only one qualifying offense, is assessed as low risk, and meets all conditions under Texas law. They must petition the court, provide supporting documents, and demonstrate good conduct for a specified period usually ten years after supervision ends.
What Is Publicly Shared On The Registry?
The Texas sex offender registry shares the offender’s name, photo, physical description, home address, conviction details, and assigned risk level. This information is available online through the DPS website. However, certain cases such as juvenile adjudications or court-exempt individuals may be excluded from public view but remain accessible to law enforcement agencies.
Final Thoughts
Texas takes sex offender registration seriously, with strict requirements on those guilty of qualified offenses. Registration deadlines, reporting duties and publication disclosure are clearly outlined by the State law, and non-compliance can lead to serious legal consequences. However, Texas law provides a certain low risk or relief for offenders once through the legal petition for early termination.
If you or any loved one is facing registration obligations or seeking removal, the professional legal guide can make a difference. Contact experienced attorneys at L&L Law Group in Texas to protect your rights and navigate the Texas registration laws with confidence.