Campus Sex Crimes Prevention

The Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act of 2000 provides for the tracking of convicted sex offenders enrolled at or employed by institutions of higher education. The law requires institutions of higher education to issue a statement advising the campus community where such important information may be obtained. It also requires sex offenders to provide notice, under State law, to each institution of higher education in the state where the person is employed, carries on a vocation, or is a student. In New York State, a sex offender must register with the Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).

There are three levels of risk, based on an offender’s risk of re-offending: Level 1 (low) , Level 2 (moderate), and Level 3 (high). As a general rule, the sentencing court will determine an offender’s risk level at the time of sentence (in probation cases) or when the offender is released from custody (in jail or prison cases). All sex offenders must register annually for a period of at least 10 years. Offenders who are classified as “high risk” (Level 3) must register for life unless judicially relieved of that obligation and also must personally verify their address with local law enforcement every 90 days.

In limited circumstances, the College may choose to notify the College community regarding Level 2 or Level 3 sex offenders on campus. Campus Police are prohibited by law from disclosing information regarding Level 1 sex offenders.