Cherokee County Sheriff's Office Investigators and Deputies recently conducted a county-wide Registered Offender Compliance Operation. 

"With over one hundred registered sex, drug and violent offenders in Cherokee County, it's important that we regularly ensure they maintain compliance, so families have access to current and accurate information about any registered offenders living within their neighborhoods," stated Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves.

"Throughout the year our investigators keep a close tab on those required to register under the Kansas Offender Registration Act, but our office still likes to conduct county-wide operations several times throughout the year, particularly at times like now when children are getting out of school for the summer.  These operations help confirm compliance and hold those in violation accountable.  During this most recent compliance operation, where deputies and investigators went to the homes of the offenders, there was over 95% compliance."

"Those found to be non-compliant have either been taken into custody already on new allegations of violating the Kansas Offender Registration Act, or can expect to be arrested soon," continued Sheriff Groves.

In an effort to provide parents with useful tools to keep their families safe, particularly as it relates to sexual predators, the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office has partnered with Covington, Louisiana based OffenderWatch, to provide free access to download the OffenderWatch app on Android and iPhone smartphone devices. 

After downloading the app, citizens will be able to see registered sex offenders located near them or their family members. They will also receive free alerts when a registered sex offender moves into their neighborhood.

According to the Crimes Against Children Research Center, one in five teens have reported receiving an unwanted sexual solicitation online.  In 2021, most of the more than 29 million tips reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children dealt with child sexual abuse images, online enticement, including "sextortion," child sex trafficking, and child sexual molestation.

Funding for the Registered Offender Compliance Operation is provided through a grant awarded to the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office from the Adam Walsh Act Implementation Grant, United States Office of Justice Programs.

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