Careful Lubbock, There Is Almost Certainly A Sex Offender Near You

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As chilling as it can be, I imagine you'd still rather know if a sex offender lives near you. Lubbock, and especially Idalou, I hate to tell you that a sex offender almost certainly does live within walking distance of where you do.

This interactive map (click link) provided by city-data.com, makes it easy to find your neighborhood and pinpoint the offenders near you. You can also see their picture, their risk level, and what crime they must register for. I looked at which offender is closest to our radio station:

If you click on the blue hyperlink, you'll see their photo and more details. This person is out on probation for indecency with a child with contact (i.e molestation). The victim was a 12-year-old boy.

There is a wide range of sex crimes that, if convicted, the offender must register for, including:

• indecency with a child

• sexual assault

• aggravated sexual assault

• prohibited sexual contact

• compelling prostitution

• sexual performance by a child

• possession or promotion of child pornography

• aggravated kidnapping if the crime was committed with intent to abuse the victim sexually

• burglary if the burglary was coupled with sexual assault of aggravated kidnapping

• unlawful restraint, kidnapping, or aggravated kidnapping

• a second conviction for indecent exposure

• any crime under the Uniform Code of Military Justice that meets the requirements of these previously mentioned crimes (note: you must be an active member of the military)

Do some offenders get a "bad deal"?

Well, that's subjective. Certainly, there's a difference in the severity of these crimes, as they range from violent sexual assault to online solicitation. And there are probably some people on the list who took a bad plea deal to avoid jail time or were just over the consensual age difference. The age of consent in most cases in Texas is 17; however, the so-called Romeo and Juliet law means that it's probably not illegal for a 16-year-old to have sex with a 15-year-old. However, it is never legal to have sexual contact with a person under 13.

HOWEVER, every sex crime has a victim, and I would never attempt to quantify their suffering and trauma.

If you are concerned about a sex offender living near you, StopItNow.org has a list of useful tips to help set your mind at ease.