Senator George Runner
Serving the 17th District which incorporates portions of the Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Ventura and Kern counties.

SACRAMENTO, CA. – Sen. George Runner (R-Antelope Valley) today released the following statement in response to the Second District Court of Appeals decision to reinstate enforcement of the 2,000 foot residency restriction provided for in Jessica’s Law (2006’s landmark sex offender law, which was passed by 70 percent of California voters). The Nov. 18 decision supersedes the order of Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Espinoza, which suspended the 2,000 foot sex offender residency restriction in Los Angeles.

“The people of California have made it clear that they do not believe child molesters should live in close proximity to schools, parks and other places where children play. I support the court’s decision to side with California voters and maintain the residency restrictions found in Jessica’s Law in Los Angeles County.

“As our courts continue to review these residency restrictions, they should focus on reasonable distancing alternatives rather than eliminating the 2,000 foot restriction all together.

“The vast majority of sex offenders on parole in Los Angeles County are in full compliance with the residency restrictions in Jessica’s Law. I encourage the court to look for practical solutions that keep the safety of our children a priority.”