Sex offender information now available on-line

Iowans who have access to the Internet can now stay better informed about “at-risk” sex offenders who’ve been released — and who may have moved into their neighborhoods. The state Division of Criminal Investigation has launched a website providing information on 200 freed sex offenders with a database that can be easily searched.D-C-I Special Agent in Charge Larry Mullen says the website can be searched by name, county, city or zip code using the website which will be updated daily. Agent Mullen says there is another feature that enables people to refine their search to individual characteristics if they’re suspicious of someone.The service went on-line last week and is already getting heavy use. Mullen says the webpage is getting 200 “hits” every hour, meaning it’s being accessed 200 times an hour. He says this information is being made public due to changes in state law and will help keep people informed.Each file contains a color photo of the offender, his or her full name, address, physical description, date of birth, county of conviction, crime of conviction and risk level. The website address is: www.iowasexoffenders.com