Mejias-Sponsored Legislation that Tracks Computer Activity of Sex Offenders Approved by Legislature

Nassau County Legislator Dave Mejias (D-Farmingdale) joined fellow lawmakers in approving legislation he introduced in October that will allow the Probation Department to monitor the computer activity of registered sex offenders and other criminals in an effort to protect children from those who use the Internet to perpetrate crimes against kids. The vote took place at the December 17 full legislative session.

“By monitoring the computer usage of these criminals, we have another weapon at our disposal to protect our children,” Mejias said. “The Internet can be a very useful tool for those looking to harm a child, whether it’s going into chat rooms, using sites like Myspace, or even looking for single mothers on dating sites. But this law will allow law enforcement professionals to watch every move they make on their computer, and our children will be safer for it.”

Under the new law, all registered sex offenders and those convicted of endangering the welfare of a child where any part of the commission of the crime was facilitated by the use of a computer are subject to monitoring. The law will go into effect 120 days from the date of its approval.

This legislation is just the latest step Mejias has taken in ensuring that parents are aware of sex offenders in their neighborhood and that those sex offenders are stricltly monitored. Mejias was instrumental in the passing of legislation that prohibited registered sex offenders from living too close to schools, parks and playgrounds and has held countless community meetings to educate parents on steps they can take to protect their kids.

“Nassau County now has some of the toughest laws on the books relating to sex offenders,” Mejias said. “This new legislation will serve as an excellent companion to Megan’s Law, and I am proud that my fellow legislators and I can hold this law up as an example of Nassau County’s commitment to the safety of its most vulnerable citizens.”