A Guide to Sex Offender Registration Requirements in Texas
How long is someone who is convicted of a sex crime required to be a registered sex offender in Texas? The answer depends on many factors, but we’re looking at two time periods: ten years or lifetime registration. In some cases, deregistration is possible. Stick around to get the background information you need to see the full picture.
If you’ve been convicted of certain offenses in Texas, registering as a sex offender may be a legal requirement.
The consequences for missteps can be severe, so offenders should be aware of the following:
- Who has to register as a sex offender
- What registration involves
- What rights are limited
- How to deregister
Read on for the answers to those questions and others. But first, let’s go over the basics.
What is sex offender registration?
Sex offender registration is a system that requires those convicted of certain offenses to register their personal information with law enforcement. This registry is used to monitor individuals after they’re released and inform the public about safety issues.
Registration periods begin when a person has completed their sentence.
In Texas, registration requirements are covered under Chapter 62 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
What crimes require sex offender registration?
The list of offenses requiring sex offender registration is extensive, but includes:
- sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault
- compelling prostitution
- online solicitation of a minor
- unlawful restraint
- aggravated kidnapping involving intent to sexually abuse the victim
Registration begins after an individual completes their sentence.
Once someone is released from prison, jail, or a residential facility, they have seven days to register. If they’re placed on community supervision (probation), the seven-day period starts when supervision begins.
Sex offender registration requirements stipulate that registration must take place in the city or county where the person resides.
It’s also not a one-off — they’re required to verify their information regularly. Exactly how often depends on the offense; it ranges anywhere from every 90 days to once a year.
Personal information must be provided.
When a convicted sex offender reports to law enforcement in Texas for the first time, they’re required to provide proof of identity as well as other information about themselves:
- Full name and other aliases
- Names of social media accounts or email addresses
- Address
- Date of birth
- Sex
- Race
- Height
- Weight
- Eye and hair color
- An up-to-date photograph
- Details of the conviction
- Job title and status
They must also update the registry when they move, change jobs, enroll in school, or alter any of the above information.
What restrictions are imposed on registered sex offenders?
When you register as a sex offender, you’ll be prohibited from certain jobs and housing situations.
Jobs involving access to children or vulnerable adults are off-limits.
A range of other positions are also banned for sex offenders, including operating a taxi or working in law enforcement. Employers may conduct background checks, so lying on an application is not recommended.
For individuals who already hold a job, licenses may be denied or revoked.
Sex offender registration affects housing options and travel restrictions.
Texas law prohibits some registrants from living within 1,000 feet of a Child Safety Zone. These zones include schools, parks, playgrounds, and daycares.
Other states have stricter restrictions, limiting where a registrant can live or go. Convicted individuals should check the state’s registry requirements before moving.
Registered sex offenders may still go to college.
There are some limitations, however. Offenders cannot live on campus unless the institution gives them permission.
Failing to register leads to penalties.
Failing to register or update your information is a felony offense in Texas. The exact charge depends on the underlying conviction and any previous violations.
A first-time failure to register is typically a state jail felony. Repeat offenders may be charged with a third-degree or second-degree felony. Even small violations, like failing to report an email address, can lead to arrest and prosecution.
Texas assigns a risk level to each registered sex offender.
The risk level informs the community about the degree of risk posed by the sex offender and impacts how much information is made public. For example, high-risk offenders may be listed on public websites.
There are four risk levels:
- Low Risk: Unlikely to reoffend
- Moderate Risk: Possible risk of reoffending
- High Risk: Serious risk of reoffending
- Civil Commitment: Repeat offenders who are committed for outpatient treatment and supervision
Indecent exposure doesn’t always require registration.
Indecent exposure, which, according to the Texas Penal Code, requires “intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person,” is a Class B misdemeanor.
It carries a penalty of a maximum of 180 days in jail and up to a $2,000 fine.
A first-time indecent exposure offense doesn’t have a sex offender registration requirement. However, a second or subsequent offense of indecent exposure does require registration.
Can you deregister as a sex offender? In rare cases, yes.
If you have registered as a sex offender in the State of Texas, it may be possible to remove yourself (“deregister”).
Keep in mind that it’s rare and requires that you:
- have been a first-time sex offender who committed a non-aggravated offense
- have been registered for a minimum of 10 years
- complete sex offender treatment
- not be a threat to reoffend
The process to deregister is time-consuming. It involves legal filings, a review by the Texas Department of Public Safety, and a hearing.
Work with an aggressive firm specializing in sex crimes cases across Fort Worth and Dallas.
Gold Legal, PLLC can help you understand sex offender registration requirements, evaluate your options, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
— Kandi Gilder, Attorney at Law