Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act
Information on Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct
The federal Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, enacted on October 28, 2000, became effective on October 28, 2002. Sex offenders, under the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, must register with the state where an institution of higher education is located (even if they do not reside in the state) once they become enrolled or work at an institution of higher education. Changes in enrollment or employment status also must be made known to the state. Individuals covered by the act include:
- An individual enrolled at an institution of higher education in the state on a full-time or part-time basis; or
- An individual that has any sort of full-time or part-time employment at an institution of higher education in the state, with or without compensation, for more than 14 days, or for an aggregate period exceeding 30 days in a calendar year.
The law requires institutions of higher education to issue a statement advising the campus community where law enforcement agency information provided by a State concerning registered sex offenders may be obtained.
How can one learn if a person is listed in the Sex Offender registry?
Under the New York State Sex Offender Registry Act (SORA) rules have been established
regarding the dissemination of information on Sex Offenders. Complete information
can be obtained at the SORA website.
SORA has four distinct procedures for community notification.
- Local law enforcement agencies are notified whenever a sex offender moves into their jurisdiction. That agency may notify schools and other "entities with vulnerable populations" about the presence of a Level 2 or Level 3 offender if the offender poses a threat to public safety. The Saratoga Springs Police Department is the agency that collects and disseminates this information in our community.
- SORA established an Information Line (800-262-3257 at no cost) where citizens 18-years or older can call to inquire whether a person is listed in the Registry.
- SORA provides for the distribution of the Subdirectory of High-Risk (Level 3) Sex Offenders to law enforcement agencies throughout the State. Citizens can review that Subdirectory at local law enforcement agencies. The Subdirectory includes photographs of all Level 3 offenders. The Saratoga Springs Police Department (SSPD) can be contacted at (518) 584-1800 regarding this information also.
- The Subdirectory may also be accessed via the Internet here at the Division of Criminal Justice Service's website.