Sex offender reacts to new law

6-8-2010 Georgia:

AUGUSTA, Ga. - Governor Sonny Perdue signed a new sex offender law that erases restrictions for some convicted sex offenders, making it harder for law enforcement to keep track of them. 26 News spoke with one sex offender about the law and how it will make his life easier.

“I was young, going down the wrong road. I met a girl. Didn't know how young she was, you know how it goes,” said the anonymous sex offender.

This registered sex offender who didn't want to be identified was convicted in 2001 of child molestation, at the young age of 14 after spending 7 years behind bars. He is now living at a hotel along Gordon Highway, one of the only places safe for sex offenders to live under the old law. He says the law wasn't fair to those who already did time for their crime.

“I don't think it was fair for myself but for everyone else it’s messed up for them,” he said.

But a new law is giving registered sex offenders like him a second chance.

“Really I'm just happy,” he said.

A new Georgia law states any sex offender or predator convicted before June 4, 2003 will have no restrictions on were they can live or work. Richmond County deputies say the new law also makes it easier for sex offenders to be removed from the registry which could make it harder for law enforcement to keep track of them. That brings concern to parents.

“I think all sex offenders should be registered. I think we should know where they are as a parent to keep our kids safe. I mean they committed it one time, who’s to say they are not going to do it again?” said Sally Forner, a concerned parent.

But this registered offender says some can change, and he's just glad to be getting a second chance.

“Get a job...now I can get one wherever I want now, that makes that better 'cause I don't have to worry about being close to a school, bus stop. If a job is across the street from a church is hiring I can go apply for it,” he said. ..Source.. Jonathan Davis