Accessing the Iowa Sex Offender List

Sex offender registration is mandatory for individuals who were adjudicated or convicted of a sexual offense or a sexually violent crime in Iowa. Registration is also required if an individual moves into Iowa from another state where he or she was registered as a sex offender.

Searching Online for Information on Sex Offenders in Iowa

For information on sex offender registration and the locations of sex offenders within the state, citizens can visit the Iowa Sex Offender Registry website at http://www.iowasexoffender.com. The website is updated every hour so that its information is current and accurate. Chapter 692A of the Code of Iowa provides for the establishment of this registry.

The registration information provided on the website is to be used as an investigative tool for law enforcement, for public protection and safety, and for deterring sex offenders from committing future crimes. Visitors to the website can conduct a search for a particular offender within the Iowa sex offender list by visiting http://www.iowasexoffender.com/search. The user must read and accept the terms of use before searching. There are a number of options available when conducting a search, as follows:

•    Simple Search
•    Advanced Search
•    Map Search
•    Telephone Search
•    Email and IDs Search
•    Vehicle Search

A registered sex offender remains on the list for 10 years; this time period renews upon parole or probation revocation. Certain sex-related convictions require lifetime registration. Sex offenders must re-register with updated information when changing their residential address, address of school in Iowa, or address of employer in Iowa. If the offender knowingly provides false information or does not comply with the registration laws of Iowa, he or she could face additional criminal charges.

Other Methods of Public Access to Sex Offender Records

The general public, including victims and witnesses of crimes, can access information on Iowa sex offenders from the Iowa sex offender list. The website allows concerned parents to remain informed of the activities of sex offenders in their neighborhoods.

Iowa citizens can also obtain information on a sex offender at the local sheriff's office or police department by filling out a Request for Registry Information form (DCI-150). The individual seeking an offender's information must provide a few details, such as the name, address, social security number, or date of birth; he or she will be informed if this information is linked to a person on the sex offender list. Registry information is only released by the sheriff’s office or the police department if those seeking the information are able to provide certain details regarding the offender.

Citizens can obtain a printed copy of certain details about registered sex offenders, such as name, address, and any physical identification like marks, scars, and tattoos. The copy given to the citizen will not include information about the crime that was committed or about the victim. There is no charge for obtaining a copy of an offender's information. To obtain this information, one can contact the Iowa Department of Public Safety at the following address:

Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation
Department of Public Safety Building
215 East 7th Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
Voice: (515) 725-6050
Fax: (515) 725-6040

One can also request information through the Iowa Sex Offender Registry website at http://www.iowasexoffender.com/contact.

Iowa citizens can sign up for e-mail notifications to keep an eye on a specific offender. This system will provide e-mail updates on the location of an offender. Those who sign up for e-mail alerts will be notified if a registered sex offender moves into specified area. This feature of the registry is available at http://www.iowasexoffender.com/notifications.