For sex offenders in Louisiana, the consequences of a conviction extend long past their sentence. One of the most damaging effects of being convicted of a sex crime is the requirement to register as a sex offender with the state. Registered sex offenders have to comply with strict regulations limiting where they can live, work, and travel, among other consequences. Depending on the severity of the crime, the individual may be registered as a sex offender for life.
If you are under investigation for a sex crime in Louisiana, you need a first-class criminal defense attorney on your side. Your attorney will work with you to understand every detail of your case, advocate on your behalf, and craft the strongest defense to fight the charges against you.
Length of Registration for the Three Tiers of Sex Offenders in Louisiana
In Louisiana, a sex crime can be classified under one of three tiers based on the severity of the crime. Each tier requires offenders to be registered for a different amount of time.
Tier One
An individual convicted of a tier-one sex crime will have to register as a sex offender for 15 years. Tier one sex crimes include:
- A sexual battery on an adult victim
- Intentionally exposing an individual to HIV or AIDS
- Sexual misconduct between a teacher or educator and a student
These crimes are classified as less severe because the courts believe those that commit these crimes are the least likely to be repeat offenders.
Tier Two
Individuals convicted of tier two sex crimes are considered to be at moderate risk for committing a repeat offense. Tier two sex crimes include:
- Soliciting images of a minor via the Internet
- Possessing, producing, or facilitating child pornography
- Sexual human trafficking of a minor
Individuals convicted of a tier two sex crime must remain on Louisiana’s sex offender registry for 25 years.
Tier Three
Tier three is the most severe classification of sex crimes, and individuals convicted are required to remain registered sex offenders for the rest of their lives. Tier three sex crimes include:
- Aggravated rape
- Sexual battery in the second degree
- Child kidnapping
- Incest with sexual intercourse
- Any severe sex crime that involves violence
After being released from prison, sex offenders have three days from their release from prison to register with the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections. The time limit also applies to sex offenders moving to Louisiana from out of state.
Consequences of Being a Registered Sex Offender in Louisiana
When a person registers as a sex offender in Louisiana, certain identifying information becomes available to the public. This includes their name, mugshot, address, email address, phone number, and a detailed physical description. This alone can make it difficult for registered sex offenders to live private lives. Other long term effects include:
- If the victim was under 13, a registered sex offender cannot live within 1,000 feet of a school or any other place where children congregate.
- Travel restrictions and frequent check-ins about their whereabouts with the police
- A ban from entering child safety zones
- Restricted access to social media sites
- A ban from working at any place where children congregate
In addition to these restrictions, a sex offender’s supervising officer can impose more restrictions as they see fit. These potentially life-long consequences make sex crimes among the most severely punished crimes in the state.
Speak to a Reliable Louisiana Sex Crime Defense Lawyer
Being charged or convicted of a sex crime in Louisiana could completely turn your life upside down. If you are facing these serious charges, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. Eric G. Johnson of the John D. and Eric G. Johnson Law Firm has dedicated his career to providing the highest quality defenses for his clients in Louisiana. He is committed to being a fierce advocate for the accused to protect their rights. To schedule a free consultation to discuss your legal needs, call us at (318) 377-1555 or complete our contact form today.