In Minnesota, as with most other states, if you are convicted of certain sexual crimes, you may be ordered to register as a sex offender via the state’s sex offender registry program. The length of your registration may vary depending on the nature of your specific case.

The Minnesota sex offender registry program groups participants into one of three levels. Your case details and the actual offense for which you are convicted may determine the level designation you receive.

Level 3 offenders

As explained by the Minnesota Department of Corrections, the state deems those persons with the highest potential to be involved in a future sex crime as Level 3 offenders. Community notifications regarding these persons may occur via the media, public gatherings or other means. Neighbors may receive some details if a Level 3 offender establishes residence in the area.

Level 2 and 1 offenders

People determined to have a moderate risk of future sex crimes may be categorized as Level 2 offenders and those determined to have a low risk of future crimes are Level 1 offenders. For both groups, notifications may be made to law enforcement, those involved in the offense and select others as identified by the prosecution. In addition, others may receive details about Level 2 offenders at the discretion of law enforcement.

This information is not intended to provide legal advice but is instead meant to give people in Minnesota an overview of the three sex offender levels identified by the state and how those levels impact who may learn about the person’s presence or status.