MARQUETTE -- Starting next week, some registered sex offenders in the area will need to verify their current address with local law enforcement.
The Sheriff's Department and Michigan State Police are reminding all tier three offenders to report in person to one of the agencies within a 15-day period, starting on April 1. The process is part of a state law that requires offenders with more serious charges to verify their residence quarterly.
Tier two and tier one offenders need to do this less often.
"It provides information to the public regarding those offenders' whereabouts. It also assists law enforcement if we're ever investigating a complaint regarding the offender, we have quite a bit of information already," said Michigan State Police Sgt. Kevin Dowling. "Failure to do so could result in a criminal charge which carries a penalty of up to two years in prison."
At any time of the year, sex offenders are required to notify law enforcement of any changes regarding their employment or vehicle purchase.