Signed by Governor John Carney, Jr.

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

a vote to pass a bill to amend rules concerning removal from the sexual offender registry due to adjudicated sentences

Highlights:

• Establishes that notwithstanding any law, any adjudicated sex offender who was under the age of 18 on the date of their offense requires the Family Court to conduct a comprehensive evaluation, risk assessment and treatment recommendations (Sec. 1). 

• Requires the Family Court to hold a sentencing hearing and address treatment for juvenile (Sec. 1). 

• Authorizes that if the offender was at least 14 years old on the date of the offense and violated §§ 770(a)(3)a., 771, 772, 773, 776, or 778 or of this article §§ 512, 513 and § 531, the juvenile shall be immediately registered as a sex offender (Sec. 1). 

• Establishes that the offender may be relieved if the Family Court finds evidence that the juvenile does not pose a threat to public safety, the following will be considered (Sec. 1): 

• The threat to potential victim; 

•  The nature of the offense; 

• The impact on the victim; and 

•  The likelihood of rehabilitation. 

• Authorizes an offender under 18 the right to petition Family Court for a registry review hearing (Sec.1). 

• Establishes that a registry review must be filed no sooner than 5 years from the date of the adjudication (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that the decision of the Family Court regarding discretionary registration, modification, or removal may be appealed by the State or the juvenile (Sec. 1).