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County creates emergency‑shelter rules for registered sex offenders; noncompliance becomes misdemeanor
Summary
The board amended county emergency‑shelter rules to require registered sex offenders and sexual predators who enter shelters to disclose their status, supply identification and accept law‑enforced placement or separation; noncompliance may be charged as a misdemeanor.
The Board adopted an amendment to Chapter 51 of the Martin County Code that prescribes procedures for handling registered sex offenders and sexual predators who seek shelter at county‑run emergency shelters during declared events. The ordinance requires offenders and predators who present at a shelter to notify shelter staff or law enforcement of their status, provide identification, complete required forms and comply with placement or separation directives. Failure to comply may be prosecuted as a misdemeanor.
Melissa Petrick, senior assistant county attorney, presented the ordinance and the proposed new section 51.13, which adds definitions and procedures to the county’s disaster and emergency management chapter. Petrick said the county had 152 registered offenders and 15 predators as of 2024 and that the sheriff’s office is responsible for registration and monitoring.
Under the new language, law enforcement may assign an alternate site (for example, jail or courthouse facilities) or designate a separate area within a shelter where a deputy would maintain presence to prevent commingling with the general public. If no alternate site is available, an offender may be required to remain within a specific, supervised area of the shelter or be asked to leave if they refuse to comply. The ordinance includes misdemeanor penalties for violations. Petrick said the state attorney and public defender offices had been contacted and agreed they would prosecute or handle cases as appropriate.
Commissioners clarified that lack of identification or mental‑health disabilities would not automatically bar a person from shelter services; shelter staff may work with law enforcement to determine placement and maintain access to shelter for those in need. No members of the public spoke in opposition.
Ending: The board adopted the ordinance unanimously and directed emergency‑management staff and the sheriff’s office to implement intake procedures and communications to shelter operators and the public about the new requirements.
