HAGATNA, Guam (AP) - A registry that will list repeat family violence offenders in Guam is going public next week.
The registry has been in the works for nearly three years, the Pacific Daily News (https://is.gd/UU889W) reported. The registry is scheduled to be launched Monday.
A 2011 law created through a bill introduced by territorial Sen. Dennis Rodriguez, D-Dededo, requires the Office of the Attorney General to keep a database of those convicted of at least two family violence offenses. A person could be placed on the registry for a first offense in some cases, such as crimes involving deadly weapons.
The registry will be retroactive to 2011, said Carlina Charfauros, a spokeswoman for the office. Someone convicted before 2011 and after also would be listed.
In cases where a conviction is expunged, the offender could be removed from the list. Those on the list also could petition to be removed.
Rodriguez said he hopes the registry protects people by providing them with knowledge. “I think it’s a step in the right direction,” he said.
The registry will be useful for people beginning relationships, Rodriguez and Charfauros said.
“It’s targeted for people who might not know who they’re getting into a relationship with,” Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez and Charfauros said they don’t anticipate the registry to lead to vigilante action or harassment against those who appear on it.
He hasn’t seen any violence directed at those listed on Guam’s sex-offender registry, Rodriguez said.
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