Who Is Required to Register as A Sex Offender?

Like other states, Kentucky has laws that require certain people to register as sex offenders. A common misperception is that everyone convicted of a sex offense must be registered as a sex offender.

If you have been charged with a sex offense, you should speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. A sex offense conviction has very serious consequences, and you need an attorney who will fight for your rights and your reputation.

Typically, a person who was convicted of certain sex offenses must register as a sex offender with his or her local law enforcement agency. The following is a list of sex offenses under Kentucky law:

• Rape
• Sodomy
• Sexual abuse
• Indecent exposure
• Sexual misconduct
• Use of electronic means to induce a minor to engage in sexual activities
• Unlawful transaction with a minor, which includes illegal sexual activity and certain illegal controlled substances activities
• Use of a minor in a sexual performance
• Promoting sexual performance by a minor

If you were convicted of one of the offenses above, you may be required to register as a sex offender if you also meet one of the following criteria:

• You were convicted after July 15, 1994;
• You were either incarcerated or sentenced after July 15, 1998;
• You were required to register as a sex offender in another state or territory or under federal law;
• You committed one of the sex offenses listed above in another state or territory;
• You committed a sex offense against a minor under military law, federal law, or the laws of another state, territory, or country; or
• You were classified as a Sexually Violent Predator under federal law or in another state or territory

Being required to register as a sex offender means that you must provide certain information to your local law enforcement agency, such as your name, address, and photo. This information will be made available to the public. Depending on your particular case, you will be required to register either for your lifetime or for 20 years. Failure to register as a sex offender is a felony.