What If I Fail to Register as a Sex Offender in Minnesota?

Sex crimes in Minnesota can come with some of the harshest charges as well as convictions in the criminal justice system. While there are presumptive prison sentences for many if not most of these kinds of charges, what many don’t know is what could await an offender once, if ever, they are released from prison. This means probation but it also means registering as a sex offender. The focus of this article is on what happens in the event your are charged in Minnesota with Failing to Register as a Sex Offender or fail to stay registered as a Sex Offender. Contact St. Paul based Jack Rice for a free confidential consultation.

What are some of the Charges that Require Registration?

Many Minnesota sex crimes including Rape, Sexual assault, Date Rape, Statutory Rape, Child Pornography, Prostitution, Sex Trafficking, Felony Indecent Exposure, Sexual Extortion, and Kidnapping come with mandatory requirements that you register with the state of Minnesota as a predatory sex offender. Every charge is different regarding the length and level of registration.

How long do I have to register?

It depends.  Some cases require 10 years of registration. However, there are some charges that will require a lifetime registration.  It is important to understand the ramifications of both. Probation should have the answer to this one.

What are some of the requirements that could result in me being charged with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender?

• Failure to initially register as a sex offender or submit all of the required verification forms.

• Failure to stay in-compliance with and stay registered when your circumstances change including:

  • While living in Minnesota, failing to report any changes in:

    • address;

    • employment;

    • telephone numbers;

    • school location;

    • your vehicles owned or frequently driven.

  • When moving to Minnesota, failing to register information with local authorities including:

    • residence;

    • employment;

    • telephone numbers;

    • school;

    • vehicles owned or frequently driven.

  • When visiting Minnesota for longer than 14 days and fail to register.

What happens if I am charged with a Failure to Register as a Sex Offender?

Failing to register is actually a crime and you can be charged with Failing to Register, a felony.  Also, if you are still on probation, that can violate the conditions of your probation on the underlying sex charge.  They could come at you from both directions. 

The ramifications of failing to register include:

• Failing to register can add five years or more to the length of your sexual offender registration requirements;

• Conviction could result in up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine;

• According to statute, there is a mandatory minimum one year plus a day sentence for even first time convictions;

• Subsequent convictions may result in a 2 year sentence at a minimum

• A Failure to Register conviction would likely violate your conditions of release and probation which could then result in additional jail or even execution of prison sentence.

If you are facing a Failure to Register as a Sex Offender charge, the ramifications could be huge. It is critical to call a criminal defense attorney immediately. You need to know what you face and what the next steps that you can take. It takes knowledge and experience and a lot of time to know what it takes to win. If you need help, contact St. Paul based Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.