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State Senate passes bill requiring fresh photos be used to identify sex offenders; Sen. Griffo says measure protects people

Posted 6/25/12

The state Senate has passed a bill that will require frequent fresh photographs of serious sex offenders to give law enforcement a better chance of apprehending repeat violators. The bill will ensure …

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State Senate passes bill requiring fresh photos be used to identify sex offenders; Sen. Griffo says measure protects people

Posted

The state Senate has passed a bill that will require frequent fresh photographs of serious sex offenders to give law enforcement a better chance of apprehending repeat violators.

The bill will ensure that photographs for Level Three sex offenders or sexual predators are updated and are an accurate representation, according to Sen. Joseph Griffo.

“The former system for updating photos was unacceptable when you look at how important it is that we continue to protect society,” said the Rome Republican representing the 47th District.

Level Three sex offenders or sexual predators are required to personally appear to law enforcement every 90 days to verify their address. If a new photograph is taken at the 90 day appearance, the law enforcement agency will promptly forward a copy to the division of criminal justice services, under the bill.

“I made a promise to the people of Oneida County that we would take the swiftest possible action to change the system, and with this legislation we are doing that. I do not want any community anywhere in this state to be gripped by the kind of fear that gripped Oneida County because of gaping holes in existing policies. This legislation is common sense, and protects the people who look to us to protect them from predatory, violent offenders,” Griffo said.

Griffo noted that a similar bill cleared the Assembly and that the Senate version will be going back there for changes to conform with the Senate version.