By C1 Staff
ALBUQUERQUE, NM — The living situation of 18 sex offenders living near an Albuquerque daycare center is not only in violation of city law, but also New Mexico Department of Corrections rules.
The issue, however, is complicated, according to KOB.
The offenders were living in a dorm-style apartment complex when the daycare center moved in down the street, about 900 feet away.
City law and DOC rules require the offenders to be at least 1,000 feet away from any facility where children might reside. But neither have any stipulations regarding whether it makes a difference if the offender lived in the neighborhood before a daycare or school opened.
“We’re not viewing them as being in violation at this point,” said sex offender supervisor Haven Scogin. “Because what is occurring is not their choice.”
It’s unclear how the daycare center moved in without the DOC’s notice, but it’s now the subject of an internal inquiry.
Otherwise, the offenders have been in compliance with their supervision, and supervisors are on site every day.
Some may still have to move, which Scogin says may create more problems than it solves.
“They have a higher likelihood of becoming involved with drug use or picking up new charges,” she said. “Having a stable environment makes a big difference with these offenders.”
Those required to move will have to find a place they can afford, that will accept them – and many of those places have long waiting lists.