Web Site For Felons Criticized Backer Cites Protection, Foes See Invasion Of Privacy Issues

Sat., Jan. 24, 1998

Associated Press

A bill that would allow the state to release the criminal histories of convicted felons over the Internet got a critical reception from lawmakers Friday.

Rep. Jim Dunn, R-Vancouver, testified that his bill would help protect communities by making people aware of felons in their midst.

But members of a House committee told Dunn he needs to narrow the bill’s focus and that it could conflict with privacy rights and public disclosure laws.

Authorities already can notify communities about the release of sex offenders when it is necessary for public protection.

The Department of Corrections currently posts no information about felons on the Internet, information services chief Dale Putnam said.

The Washington State Patrol makes certain information about felons available on the Internet for a fee of $10 per inquiry, Capt. John Broome said. It does not include photographs, addresses or cases that ended in a defendant’s favor, he said.

The bill Dunn is sponsoring, HB2112, would increase the amount of information available on the Internet. The Department of Corrections would post data on the Internet on all felons within 30 days of conviction, regardless of appeals.

The information would include the felon’s name and aliases; current address and address at the time of conviction; age, height, weight and descriptive marks such as tattoos; the offense committed, sentence imposed and time served; the court and presiding judge; previous felonies; and a photograph.

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