In the last year, 14 sex offenders featured on the Michigan's Most Wanted Sex Offenders Web site were arrested for disregarding their responsibilities under the Michigan Sex Offenders Registration Act.  The Web site, which was unveiled by Governor Jennifer M. Granholm in August 2006, features 10 offenders at a time and is available at www.michigan.gov/absconders.

"The individuals featured on this Web site were convicted of the most severe offenses and in some cases have not reported their whereabouts in over nine years, making them difficult to find," said Colonel Peter C. Munoz, director of the Michigan State Police (MSP), which maintains the site.  "The site serves as a tool to notify the public of these dangerous offenders and it asks for help in locating them."

Of the 14 arrests, six offenders were located through contact with law enforcement officers in other states including Arizona, Colorado, Florida and South Carolina.  One offender turned himself in to police after seeing his picture on the site.  As wanted individuals are located, the Web site is updated with other offenders. 

"These arrests are the result of outstanding police work by officers across the country and here in Michigan, however we still need the public's help," said Munoz.  "I encourage citizens to visit the most wanted sex offenders page on the MSP Web site and call the toll-free tip line with any information on the whereabouts of these offenders."

The Michigan Sex Offender Registration Act requires individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses to verify their address four times a year.  Additionally, registered offenders must report a change of address within 10 days of moving or face a four-year felony. 

As of August 1, 2007, there were 41,472 of offenders on the Michigan Sex Offenders Registry (SOR).  Over 1,000 sex offender registry violators were arrested in 2006, through the statewide initiative Operation Verify, as well as individual investigations and local sweeps.

The public can provide information about any offender by contacting the MSP SOR Section toll free at 1-866-761-7678, or by contacting the nearest law enforcement agency.