History of Megan's Law
Megan's Law is named after seven-year-old Megan Kanka, a New Jersey girl who was raped and killed by a known child molester who had moved across the street from the family without their knowledge. In the wake of the tragedy, the Kanka's sought to have local communities warned about sex offenders in the area.
Now, Megan's Laws throughout the States arm the public with certain information on
the whereabouts of dangerous sex offenders so that local communities may protect
themselves and their children. The laws vary by State but generally authorize local
law enforcement to notify the public about high-risk and serious sex offenders who
reside in, are employed in, or frequent the community.
