(a) Repeat sexual offenders, sexual offenders who use physical violence, sexual offenders who prey on children, and sexual predators are sexual violators who present an extreme threat to the public safety. Sexual violators are extremely likely to use physical violence and to repeat their offenses, and many sexual violators commit many offenses, have many more victims than are ever reported, and are prosecuted for only a fraction of their crimes. This makes the cost of sexual violator victimization to society at large, while incalculable, clearly exorbitant.
(b) The State of Florida has a strong statutory program to assist in protecting the community against repeat offenses from sexual violators. However, the Town Commission finds that greater tracking and monitoring of potential repeat offenders is needed, and that greater protections for citizens within the town than afforded by other laws or ordinances is needed. It is the intent of this article to serve the town's compelling interest to promote, protect and improve the health, safety and welfare of the citizens and children of the town.
(c) The high level of threat that a sexual violator presents to the public safety, and the long-term effects suffered by victims of sex offenses, provide the town with sufficient justification to implement a strategy that includes enhanced monitoring of sexual violators residing in the town.
(d) It is the intent of the Town Commission in adopting Ordinance No. 2014-04 regulating sexual violator's residency that §§ 74-101 through 74-105, Brevard County Code of Ordinances, shall continue in effect within the town; provided, that when §§ 73-50 through 73-54, Town of Melbourne Beach Code of Ordinances, and §§ 74-101 through 74-105, Brevard County Code of Ordinances, conflict, §§ 73-50 through 73-54, Town of Melbourne Beach Code of Ordinances, shall prevail and be in effect. The town finds that the requirements of §§ 73-50 through 73-54, Town of Melbourne Beach Code of Ordinances, are enacted for a valid public purpose and that Brevard County residency restrictions do not provide sufficient protection to citizens within the town.
(Ord. 2014-04, passed 6-18-14)