The parents of 7-year old Megan Kanka of Hamilton Township did not know that a twice-convicted sex offender was living across the street until that neighbor was charged with the brutal rape and murder of their daughter.

The crime, occurring only months after a similar incident in Monmouth County, prompted passage of a state law requiring notification about sex offenders who may pose a risk to the community.

New Jersey's law, commonly known as "Megan's Law", requires convicted sex offenders to register with local police. Megan's Law also establishes a three-tier notification process to provide information about offenders to law enforcement agencies and, when appropriate, to the public. The type of notification is based on an evaluation of the risk to the community from a particular offender. The Attorney General's Office, in consultation with a special 12-member council, has provided county prosecutors, who must make that evaluation, with the factors to be used in determining the level of risk posed by the offender.

Equipped with the descriptions and whereabouts of high risk sex offenders, communities will be better able to protect their children.

For more information, you can contact our department's Megan's Law Officer:

Det. Joseph Morgan
973-627-4900 x 353
jmorgan@denvillepolice.gov

What is the purpose of Megan's Law?

Are all sex offenders required to register with local police?

What types of offenses require registration?

How does the notification process work?

Will I always be notified if a convicted sex offender moves into my neighborhood?

What factors are considered in determining the risk of re-offense?

What information is provided in a notification?

How will I be informed?

What should I do if I receive a notification?

Are there any other steps I can take to protect my family?