KY: Sex offender sues for anonymity on social media

A Kentucky registrant is taking the state to court over a law that forces people on the sex offense registry to use their full legal name on their social media accounts and email addresses.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court, argues that the state’s demand violates the First Amendment by effectively banning anonymous online speech for anyone on the registry — even those who have long since completed their sentences.

Represented by attorney Guy Hamilton-Smith, a well-known advocate for reforming sex offense laws, the plaintiff contends that being forced to hand over all internet identifiers chills free expression and discourages participation in lawful online activity. Many people use pseudonyms online to discuss sensitive topics, connect with support communities, or simply to maintain privacy — rights that should not be erased simply because someone is on a public registry.

State officials claim the rule is necessary to help law enforcement monitor potential online threats. However, advocates point out that such sweeping surveillance powers go far beyond what’s necessary and end up criminalizing basic freedoms like joining a Facebook group or commenting anonymously on a blog.

This case shines a spotlight on the broader issue of how far states can go in restricting the Constitutional rights of people on registries, particularly in the digital world where anonymity is often essential for open dialogue. A ruling in favor of the plaintiff could set an important precedent protecting free speech rights for registrants nationwide.

We can’t wait for a decision in this case!