NY- Sex Offender Upset Over Law

3-13-2009 New York:

(East Rochester, N.Y.) - By doing their time, some child sex offenders believe they’ve “paid their dues.” But now a new residency law in East Rochester will dictate where registered sex offenders can not live.

“My kids are my life, I had to give my daughter up because of this,” said Rusty Lamer.

Lamer, a Level II sex offender (Level III is considered highest risk) will be labeled for life.

However, he doesn't think he should be forced out of his home in East Rochester. "I love living here; I don't want to move. My son started school here. He wants to graduate here," Lamer said.

Lamere is one of four registered sex offenders living in the Village of East Rochester. He has been there for ten years.

He was charged in 2003 with third degree rape, but pleaded guilty to sexual misconduct of a 14-year-old in the village, and served a year in jail.

"I took advantage of a child, it's a mistake I truly wish I could take back…just to know what my victim is going through, I feel so bad," Lamere said.

A new residency law passed in East Rochester could force Lamere and other sex offenders out of their homes.

Village Administrator Marty D’Ambrose said, "One of the things we want to look at is, not only is it fair to live in the community, but is it fair for a seven- or eight-year-old to walk around and not feel safe?"

Lamere's wife and children stand by him.

"He definitely won't do it again; I feel it in my heart,” said Lamere’s wife Lori Razzante.

"It broke my family apart. My wife has supported me; I'm shocked she is by me now,” Lamere said. He said he learned his lesson, paid his dues, and won't hurt anyone again. "I'm not a danger to nobody. I know what I did was wrong. It's never going to happen again."

Rusty Lamere is on probation until 2011. He can have no contact with any children under 17 and cannot attend his son's high school sporting events.

He also cannot own a computer and is undergoing counseling.

Newly released sex offenders who wish to live in East Rochester will not be allowed to move there if the house is anywhere near children. Those living there now will have a year to find another place to live. ..News Source.. by 13WHAM.com