The Knox County Sheriff’s Office says it’s receiving many community questions about sex offenders—and is taking the opportunity to explain the state registry system and local efforts to ensure compliance.

Under Indiana law, individuals convicted of crimes such as rape, sexual assault, or sex trafficking must register as sex or violent offenders. Since 2003, Zachary’s Law has required sheriff’s departments to maintain and update the Indiana Sex and Violent Offender Registry (SVOR), which provides public information about where offenders live, work, or attend school.

Oversight of the registry moved to the Indiana Department of Corrections in 2006, which also supports local officials with training and resources.

Locally, the Knox County Sheriff’s Office says it is leading the state in compliance. Sergeant Wendy Russell and Deputy Johanna Carney serve as SVOR Coordinators. Russell processes offenders at the sheriff’s office, while Carney conducts in-person checks to confirm that offenders are living at their registered addresses and meeting legal requirements.

In July alone, Deputy Carney completed 22 sex offender registry checks. The sheriff’s office uses the Offender Watch program to update and monitor all registered individuals.

Officials say rules vary depending on whether someone is classified as a Sex Offender, an Offender Against Children, or a Sexually Violent Predator.