United States District Court Judge Gary Lancaster has ruled that the sex offender residency restriction ordinance passed by Allegheny County is illegal. The restriction would have barred sex offenders registered under Megan’s Law from “residing within 2,500 feet of any school, child care facility, recreation center, public park, or community center.” Judge Lancaster ruled that the ordinance conflicted with state law and was therefore illegal. Judge Lancaster also noted that the ordinance would bar registered sex offenders from living in most locations in Allegheny County. The county has not determined whether it will appeal the decision.
For more information, go to:
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09083/957836-85.stm
**UPDATE: 3/23/2009 4:22pm**
Allegheny County has decided to appeal the decision.