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What is the difference between a sexual offender and sexual predator?

On Behalf of | Jul 24, 2020 | Firm News

Florida has two types of sexual predatory lists or registries. One includes sexual predators and the other includes sexual offenders.

According to the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability, the main difference between a sexual offender and sexual predator is the type of conviction and conviction history.

Sexual offender

There are some crimes the state deems to be sexual offenses. If a court convicts you of one of these crimes, it also can label you as a sexual offender. Your conviction does not have to be in Florida.

Sexual predator

To earn the sexual predator label, you must have a repeat history of committing sexual crimes or use physical violence to commit a sexual crime. In addition, any such crimes against children will receive this label.

Restrictions for both

Both sexual offenders and predators must register with law enforcement. This puts them on a sexual offender registry that is available to the public. Your listing will include your picture, your name, your birth date, your address and other identifying information about you. It also lists your criminal convictions.

Not all information you must provide is public. Some information, such as your phone number and your employer, is only available to law enforcement and the courts. You must provide all information asked of you and according to the court order you get upon your conviction.

You will also have to get a special driver’s license that indicates you are a sexual offender or predator. You will have restrictions on where you can live, with areas near schools or other areas children frequent being off-limits.

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