What are the Consequences of Failing to Register as a Sex Offender in New York?

Our Albany sex crimes attorneys at O’Brien & Eggleston PLLC know that sex offender registries, including the New York database, are a system for monitoring and tracking sex offenders after they are released into the community.

While the information available to the public depends on an individual’s risk level (1-3), which a judge decides after a court hearing, inclusion in the registry means the public can access its contents.

This can lead to the registrant’s difficulty finding employment, restricted residency, loss of personal relationships, decreased privacy, bias, prejudice, intolerance, and harassment or victimization.

Our Albany County criminal defense attorneys tirelessly help our clients avoid convictions that will land them on the sex offender registry. However, when required, these individuals must comply upon returning to the community. The consequences for failing to do so are too steep to ignore.

Who Must Register as a Sex Offender in New York?

Anyone on parole or probation or incarcerated for a sex offense on January 21, 1996, must register as a sex offender with the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services.

In addition, offenders convicted of a sex offense, sentenced to probation, local jail, or state prison after that date must register.

Offenders who establish residence in New York State but were convicted in other jurisdictions must register if they have been convicted of an offense that requires registration as determined by the New York State Board of Examiners of Sex Offenders no later than ten days after moving.

What Happens If I Do Not Register as a Sex Offender in New York State?

In New York, failing to register as a sex offender is a felony.

• The first offense is a Class E felony, with a penalty of one to four years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines.
• A second or subsequent offense is a Class D felony, which carries a penalty of one to seven years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.

Have You Been Accused of or Arrested for a Sex Crime in New York?

Our priority is to prove that you deserve an outcome that supports your future, and we have a strong track record of doing so for our clients. Don’t give up your rights without a fight. Contact our Albany sex crimes defense attorneys at O’Brien & Eggleston PLLC today by calling (518)-391-2369 or contacting us online to schedule an initial appointment.