Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office launches new sex offender tracking and notification system

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

PULASKI COUNTY, Mo. (KBSI) — The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office has joined a nationwide sex offender registry network designed to improve offender monitoring and provide residents with free public safety notifications.

The sheriff’s office announced it has joined OffenderWatch, a system that allows law enforcement agencies to track registered sex offenders, share information and coordinate investigations across county and state lines.

Through the system, Pulaski County residents can search for publicly listed registered sex offenders living near their homes, schools or workplaces.

Residents can also sign up for free email notifications when registered sex offenders move into or relocate within a selected area.

According to the sheriff’s office, OffenderWatch is used by thousands of law enforcement agencies nationwide to maintain offender records, monitor relocations and exchange information.

Sheriff Stacy L. Ball said the system will provide deputies with additional investigative tools while giving residents access to information about registered offenders in their communities.

“Criminals do not recognize county lines or state boundaries, and neither should we, in our ability to share information and work together to protect the public,” Ball said.

The sheriff’s office said the system will also improve coordination with the U.S. Marshals Service, Internet Crimes Against Children investigators and other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.

Ball encouraged residents, particularly parents and guardians, to use the free service to stay informed.

Residents can search the registry and register for email alerts through the Pulaski County OffenderWatch website.