Montana first enacted a sexual offender law in 1989 and has added to such legislation for several years. Some convicts, whose crimes qualify under both categories, can be designated sexu al and violent offenders. They're not intended to lead to witch-hunts and a new state Web site counsels against violating offenders' rights. Sexual and violent offenders in Montana are required to register with local law enforcement within 10 days of moving into a new com munity and also when they move within a community.
Registration includes giving a DNA sample kept on file with the state crime lab.
Outof-state offenders also are required to register if their crime is compa rable to a Montana one requiring notification. Violation of the reg istry requirement, either not regis tering or failing to notify officials about a move, is a felony offense. And any Montana citizen, by law, is allowed to know the name and address of all registered offenders. In some cases, for those deemed more likely to re-offend, more information may be released, such as particular victim profile or details of previous crimes. Local authorities also may release any other information they deem neces sary for public safety, said Shelly McKenna, a program specialist for the state Department of Justice.