To protect our children from the violence of sexual predators, every state in the U. S. now has a Megan's Law in place, including California. California's Megan's Law requires convicted sex offenders to register with their local law enforcement agency. The law also makes it possible for the public to obtain the identity and addresses of registered sex offenders. Most states track the locations of registered sex offenders on easily accessible Internet websites. California's sex offender registry is managed by the office of the state's Attorney General.
Proactive in its efforts to halt sexual predators from preying on children, California has required sex offenders to register with local law enforcement offices for 50 years, but it was not until the enaction of Megan's Law that the information was readily available to the public. Unfortunately, Megan's Law tracks only convicted sexual offenders. Parents must educate their children and maintain family vigilance to ensure their children's safety.
The California Attorney General's Megan's Law website recommends parents take the following actions to protect their children from sexual predation:
- Inform your children that it is wrong for adults to engage children in sexual activity.
- Stress to your child that he should tell you if anything happens that makes him feel uncomfortable, especially if an adult is involved.
- Get to know the people your child spends time with, particularly the parents of their friends.
- Teach your children about their bodies and the correct words to use when describing private parts. Emphasize that those parts are private.
- Know where your children are at all times. Be clear about places and homes your children are allowed to visit. Make sure your children tell you where they are going when they leave home and check in when they arrive or depart their destination and when plans change. If your child is abducted, the sooner the police are alerted, the better the chance of a positive outcome.
- Set an example for your child by always telling him when your plans change or when you are running late. Emphasize that such family rules are for everyone's safety.
