Following the arrest of a paroled sex offender facing new child pornography charges, Senator Doug Steinhardt has called for legislative action on his bill, S-3859. The bill aims to give local communities more control over where sex offenders can reside.
“This case is a tragic reminder of the real dangers posed by repeat sex offenders and the urgent need for stronger local protections,” said Sen. Steinhardt. “Communities deserve a say in where convicted sex offenders can reside, especially when it comes to protecting our children.”
Steinhardt’s proposed legislation would allow municipalities to implement residency restrictions for sex offenders, particularly near neighborhoods and schools. He emphasized the importance of immediate legislative action: “We cannot sit back while known offenders continue to endanger our residents and put our most vulnerable at risk. I urge the Legislature to act immediately and pass this legislation before another child is harmed.”
The senator criticized Governor Murphy and New Jersey Democrats, claiming they support laws that release violent criminals without supervision or consequences. “Governor Murphy and every Democrat legislator in NJ continues to aid and abet child pornographers, human traffickers, gun traffickers, drug traffickers, domestic violence abusers, and other violent criminals,” he stated.
In addition to S-3859, Sen. Steinhardt introduced S-3073. This bill would allow municipalities to establish areas around schools, playgrounds, or childcare centers where certain registered sex offenders may be prohibited from living.
