Sex offenders

As Spring arrives and more and more of us begin to walk and spend time outside, remember to be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your children and be prepared for any personal attacks. Everyone is not your friend.

Are there sex offenders living in your neighborhood?

No matter where you live, the answer is more than likely yes. According to the Arkansas Crime Information Center, there are currently 11,809 registered sex offenders in Arkansas.

According to statistics provided by the U.S. Department of Justice, about 20 million out of 112 million women (18.0 percent) in the United States have been raped during their lifetime. Research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) shows 1 in 3 female rape victims experienced it for the first time between 11-17 years of age.

The CDC also reports nearly 1 in 38 men have experienced completed or attempted rape during their lifetime with 1 in 4 occurring between 11-17 years of age.

According to a recently released study by the Department of Justice Statistics, nationally, rape or sexual assault victimizations did decline from 2.7 per 1,000 persons age 12 or older in 2018 to 1.7 per 1,000 in 2019.

However, less than half (41 percent) of violent victimizations were reported to police.

At this time, there are 23 registered sex offenders living in Osceola. Twelve of these are level 2 offenders listed at “moderate risk.” Another 10 are level 3 offenders and are listed at “high risk.”

Only one registered sex offender in Osceola is listed as a level 4 “sexually dangerous person.” Artez Davon Oliver, 31, was convicted of two cases of sexual assault, second degree, and criminal attempt. He is reported to live in the 400 block of East Semmes.

Five registered sex offenders live in Luxora. Another three registered sex offenders live in Keiser and one lives in Bassett. Two live in Joiner; one in Wilson; 16 in Manila and one in Leachville.

The city of Blytheville has 44 registered sex offenders (including six level 4 offenders) and Gosnell has six.

There are another 56 inmates currently in the Arkansas Prison System for sexual offense crimes committed in Mississippi County.

Stay safe...