AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) – The Amarillo City Council is discussing a proposed ordinance that would prohibit registered sex offenders from living near designated child safety zones.
The measure, proposed by the Amarillo Police Department, would create a 1,000-foot residency buffer.
Under the proposal, registered sex offenders whose offenses involved a minor would be barred from having a permanent residence within 1,000 feet of public parks, libraries, public or private elementary and secondary schools, youth centers, and licensed day care centers.
Currently, the City of Amarillo does not have local residency restrictions for sex offenders.
Offenders are allowed to live, work, and visit anywhere, with the only requirement being to check in and notify a school if visiting.
While Texas state law enforces some restrictions through parole or probation, only probation and parole officers currently have the authority to violate or revoke an individual for living within child safety zones.
“It’s one more thing that we can do to further protect children,” Amarillo Mayor Cole Stanley said. “We always want to take every opportunity that we can to protect those that could be the most vulnerable in these areas.”
The proposed ordinance would not apply to individuals who established residency before the measure takes effect, juvenile offenders not convicted as adults, registered minors, or temporary residents, situations where a protected location opened after residency was established and incorrect registry information.
A violation would result in a class c misdemeanor, a fine of up to $500 per violation, with each day of violation constituting a separate offense.
Police Chief Thomas Hover has been finalizing the ordinance, with council members voicing support.
Stanley said the council has expedited approval of the measure and expects action to be taken this year.
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