July 19, 2010
Database changed to foil sex offenders
Changes to the National Sex Offender Registry could include adding the names of those convicted overseas and including vehicle information. "We are very pleased to be able to bring forward these amendments at this time," said Langley MP Mark Warawa, a member of the Conservative government caucus.
"Police services and victims' groups have been clear: the National Sex Offender Registry must be strengthened to better protect our children and communities from sexual predators," the MP said. Currently, a convicted sex offender is registered only when the Crown requests it, and only when a judge agrees.
The new bill would make registration automatic on conviction. The legislation would also require all convicted sex offenders to provide a DNA sample for the National DNA Data Bank.
Right now there is no way to include those guilty of sexual offences outside of Canada, including child sexual exploitation, in the registry. "We will ensure international sex offenders can be included."
Along with measures from previously introduced legislation, if passed, the bill would also ensure that information on offenders' vehicles (including license plates) will be included in the registry.
