This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance regulations surrounding sex offenders, specifically by prohibiting them from residing within 1,000 feet of schools, parks, or playgrounds. The new legal language inserted into the existing law states that any person required to register as a sex offender may not live in these designated areas. Violating this provision is classified as a felony, with penalties ranging from two to ten years of confinement in a state correctional facility.

Additionally, the bill includes various provisions related to the registration process for sex offenders, such as the requirement to provide detailed personal information and the establishment of a central registry maintained by the State Police. It also outlines the responsibilities of law enforcement and judicial officials in notifying offenders of their registration duties upon release from confinement. The bill aims to enhance public safety by restricting the proximity of sex offenders to areas frequented by children.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-12-2