Governor Charlie Crist on Wednesday signed a sexual offenders and predators bill (HB 119) in front of parents and school administrators, after visiting a third-grade class at Timber Lakes Elementary School in Orlando. This bill empowers law enforcement to arrest a convicted sex offender or predator of children if they are loitering within an area where children congregate.
“Our children are our most precious resource and we must continue to work together and seek ways to continue to ensure their safety,” said Governor Crist. “Sexual offenders and predators have no right to prey on our children and this law is another step towards securing safer neighborhoods, schools and communities for them.”
A sex offender or predator, previously convicted of an offense against children, who engages in any of the following towards a victim under 18 is subject to up to a year in jail:
- Loiter or prowl within 300 feet of a place where children congregate
- Approach or communicate with a child in any public park with the intent to engage in sexual conduct or communicate in a sexual nature
- Be at a child care facility or pre-K-12 school without prior notification or approval
The legislation also limits a sex offender or predator from participating in activities that are attractive to children, such as distributing candy or dressing up in a costume like Santa Claus or the Easter Bunny. Additional registration requirements for transient offenders or predators are also detailed.
Earlier this month, Governor Crist signed House Bill 525, eliminating the statutes of limitations relating to sexual battery of a victim less than 16 years of age.
