NJ- TWP. TO FIGHT COURT RULING LIMITING WHERE SEX OFFENDERS LIVE

7-17-2008 New Jersey:

GALLOWAY TWP.-- Galloway Township was one of the first in the state to enforce legislation that placed restrictions on where convicted sex offenders could live. Nearly three years after the ordinance was written, a State Appeals Court has ruled it invalid.

"It's bad enough now that we can't let our kids play outside like when I was younger, now we have to worry about that type of thing," the type of thing this mother of three is talking about is sex offenders in her neighborhood.

Megan's Law was passed in 1994 here in New Jersey, to protect children, requiring those convicted of sex crimes against children to register and notify local law enforcement of any change of address or employment after release from custody.

Galloway resident and mother, Mary Moliver said, "Megan's Law is great, but no, it's never going to keep everybody safe."

In 2005, Galloway Township officials agreed saying it didn't go far enough.

"We went a step further put it in legislation in our ordinance," said Mayor Tom Bassford.

The Galloway Township ordinance banned sex offenders from living in two thirds of the town and said they couldn't live within 2500 feet of schools, parks or playgrounds.

"When you put them in such close proximity to children, we just feel it's a temptation that we shouldn't have out there," said Bassford.

"People that do things to children like that shouldn't live around children or playgrounds," said Moliver.

A State Appeals Court disagreed with the township yesterday, saying Megan's Law should be the only law governing how sex offenders are treated.

The ordinance was ruled invalid because the restriction interferes with their rehabilitation and re-integration.

One concerned resident and great grandmother said, "I don't care how far away they are, they're not far enough away."

"I don't think that any township can make tough enough laws though to make sure citizens are protected especially the youngest ones," said Justin Nadal, father of 2.

But the township is going to try. "We'll be passing a resolution at our next council meeting next Tuesday, giving them the go ahead to appeal to the State Supreme Court."

Mayor Bassford believes all council members will vote in favor of an appeal during next Tuesday’s meeting.

Dozens of similar laws enacted in Monmouth and Ocean counties and across the state could also be at risk if the latest ruling stands. ..News Source.. by Jennifer Husko