Is Your Neighbor a Registered Sex Offender?

Recently we have experienced an influx of new families moving into our small community. One family in particular seemed especially nice. The father was very involved with his son, going so far as to always be available to walk his child to the bus stop every morning and meet him when he arrived home in the afternoon.

A few weeks after they moved in the little boy was very excited as he handed out flyers to everyone in the neighborhood. The family was planning a "Get To Know You Party" and all the children in the subdivision were invited to attend. The invitation promised there would be clowns, magicians, cotton candy, hamburgers, games and prizes. My children were over-the-moon with excitement, so of course I allowed them to attend the party.

I later noticed at the bottom of the invitation it stated that if parents planned to attend, would they please RSVP. Looking back that should have been a warning sign that something was not quite right with this family.

Fast forward to a few days ago when I decided to check The Sex Offender Registry for my area. Imagine my surprise to discover this man's mug shot on the very first page. His Offense? Child molestation and indecent exposure with a minor.

I was livid and disgusted. How could a registered sex offender be living three houses away from my family, and I not be informed? How did this happen?

I decided to contact the Realtor handling the property, perhaps she was unaware of his past. Unfortunately, she was very aware of the situation, but did not consider him to be a threat to the neighborhood or our children. Her reason? He seemed like a decent family man.

I am extremely concerned for my neighbors that are permitting their children to spend time at this man's home. Sadly, I have been informed that I need to tread lightly when it comes to the ways I choose to inform my neighbors of the situation. Goodness knows, I wouldn't want to violate his rights in any way.

I urge everyone reading this to check The Sex Offender Registry for your state and county. I live in a very rural area and it is right under my nose.

As parents we have to be aware of the people living in our communities. It is our responsibility to do all that we can to protect our children from sexual predators.

Unfortunately, at this time there are only 36 states that will allow the public access to a sex offender's records.