Sex offender surprises Pasco County commissioners with emotional plea
NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. – Sex offenders moving to Pasco County will soon have major restrictions as to where they can live.
That’s after a new tougher county ordinance was passed Tuesday afternoon.
The commissioners unanimously voted in favor of the ordinance , even after hearing first hand from a man who was convicted for having sexual relations with a child.
“I’ve made a terrible mistake. And I’m doing everything I can to correct it,” said James Reece, speaking during the public comment portion of the Pasco County commission meeting.
Reece wanted commissioners to understand his side.
He is a registered sex offender, but says he’s trying to rebuild his life, and tougher laws about where he can live make it difficult to work and care for his 6-year-old son.
“If I get a chance to move to a better location, let’s say I move next door to where I am now. I fall under the ordinance, and now I have to move 2,500 more feet away,” said Reese.
Reese and the other 906 sex offenders currently living in Pasco County will not be forced out of their homes, unless they violate probation.
But any new offenders and those relocating to Pasco won’t able to live within 2,500 feet of places like schools, playgrounds and day cares.
“If we can save just one child from being a victim, one child, I feel the ordinance is worth it. I really sincerely do,” said Commissioner Mike Moore, who spearheaded the ordinance.
The ACLU has challenged similar ordinances in places like Miami-Dade County saying it leaves some offenders with so few options they end up homeless.
Under Pasco’s version, not all sex offenders will face the restrictions, just those who supporters say are the worst of the worst.
“We are not talking about crimes of Romeo and Juliet, an 18-year-old, a 17-year-old at times getting together. The victims are children,” Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco said.
“The Bible teachers you about love. And I love my son. And the Bible teachers you about sin, and it’s public record that I’ve sinned. But the bible teaches you about forgiveness, and I’ll forgive you if you pass this ordinance. And I hope you’ll forgive me,” Reese said.
Commissioners thanked Reese for speaking, saying he was brave to do so.
Under the ordinance, there are also tougher restrictions for Halloween. Offenders won’t be able to hang up decorations or hand out candy.
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ugh – of course the normal cry of “if it saves just one child” But it doesn’t and that has been shown time and time again
Well sir, let me applaud you for your efforts. Unfortunately, the only language these idiot politicians in Florida understand is lawsuits, protests, and of course money. Confronting these people in a “nice” way about unconstitutional rules and ordinances they shouldn’t be making, just isn’t going to cut it. But good job nonetheless.
MJ
Thank you for the congratulations…I did what I thought was best for my son in the long run. I empathize with your frustration and feelings, however, I think it important to take a higher road when commenting about the “powers that be.”
Uneducated about the facts? Yes.
Ignorant of the reality? Yes
But idiots? I think not.
We will get further with them, further with change, with rational, courteous (albiet strong) approaches and education.
Please keep your passion… let’s rise above together.
Trying to find the author of this report. The facts about my case are misrepresented here.
Erik Waxler
EWaxler@wfts.com