Sex Offender Registry Board Classification Levels
There are three classification levels. Level 1; Level 2; and Level 3.
If you are interested in reducing your Massachusetts sex offender registration level, please read about our reclassification services.
Sex Offenders: Level 1
Where the Sex Offender Registry Board determines that an individual’s risk of reoffense is low and the degree of dangerousness posed to the public by that offender is not such that a public safety interest is served by public availability, the Board shall give that offender a Level 1 designation.
Information on Level 1 offenders is not available to the public and the police and the Sex Offender Registry Board do not have the authority to disseminate information to the general public identifying a Level 1 offender.
Level 1 offenders are required to re-register with the Sex Offender Registry Board on an annual basis during their birth month.
Sex Offenders: Level 2
Where the Sex Offender Registry Board determines that an individual’s risk of reoffense is moderate and the degree of dangerousness posed to the public is such that a public safety interest is served by public availability of registration information, the Board shall give that offender a Level 2 designation.
The public can gain access to a Level 2 offender’s registration information through their local police department and by contacting the Sex Offender Registry Board. After a recent update to Massachusetts law, information about Level 2 sex offenders classified after July 12, 2013, is also posted on the Board’s website for the public’s review.
Level 2 offenders are required to re-register with the police on an annual basis during their birth month.
Sex Offenders: Level 3
Where the Sex Offender Registry Board determines that an individual’s risk of reoffense is high and the degree of dangerousness posed to the public is such that a substantial public safety interest is served by active dissemination, it shall give the offender a Level 3 designation.
A Level 3 classification decision is to be avoided at all costs as the Sex Offender Registry Board and the police are required to engage in active dissemination of an individual’s registration information to the public through a number of means, including police leaflets, the media, and the Internet. To enhance public safety, the police are required to notify organizations and the public who are likely to encounter Level 3 offenders, including all schools. As with Level 2 offenders, a member of the public can request this information through the local police departments or through the Sex Offender Registry Board. Information about Level 3 sex offenders is also posted on the Board’s website for the public’s review.
Level 3 offenders are required to re-register with the police on an annual basis during their birth month.
Homeless sex offenders must now register every 30 days rather than every 45 days as previously required.
If you need representation before the Sex Offender Registry Board or need advice on any sex offender matter, including classification hearings and motions for reclassification, contact Attorney Attorney Crouch. Your request will be maintained in complete confidence and privacy.
If you are facing a classification proceeding or are already a registered offender who wants assistance in reviewing or challenging his or her classification, or to request further information, please contact Attorney Crouch at (617) 441-5111 or email him to set up a free, initial consultation. To request further information please contact us.