Checking the National Sex Offender Website and local sites

Owned by Gilbert, Samuel Z - (szgilbert)
Last updated: yesterday at 1:30 pm by jmonty@arizona.edu

Extension Procedure for Screening Volunteers Using the National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW)

To ensure a safe environment for youth and program participants, a check of the National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) is required for all adults who will work with or regularly attend programs or facilities where youth are present. This check must be completed before their participation and serves as a preliminary step to manage risk while minimizing the time and cost of the full volunteer screening process.

Steps for Conducting an NSOPW Check

1. Information Required:

  • Full legal name (include any other names previously used, if applicable).

2. Search Process:

  1. Go to https://www.nsopw.gov.
  2. Enter the first and last name (and any aliases, if applicable) of the individual being screened.

3. Handling Search Results:

  • If there are results under the searched name:

    • Print all the listings.

    • Submit the results to the designated staff member responsible for volunteer screening.

    • Review additional details (e.g., date of birth, address, photos) to confirm whether the individual matches the listed registry entry.

    • If the individual matches a registry entry:

      1. Notify the state office and provide:
        • The individual’s name.
        • Full mailing address.
        • Date the registry was checked.
      2. The applicant will receive a suspension letter from the state office notifying them that their application has been disqualified.
      3. The individual will be added to the database of volunteers ineligible for future consideration.

  • If there are no matches:

    • Print the "No Results" page from the NSOPW site.
    • Date and initial the page.
    • File the results:
      • For ongoing volunteers: Include the results in the individual’s personnel file.
      • For intermittent or accompanying adults: Maintain the results in a designated club or event folder.

4. Estimated Time for Completion:

  • Approximately 15 minutes per individual.

5. Responsible Person:

  • Local Extension staff overseeing volunteer management.

Additional Screening Using Local Law Enforcement Websites

To further enhance safety, it is recommended to check local law enforcement websites for registered sex offenders residing in the surrounding area. These websites allow for location-specific searches, such as by town or zip code.

State and County Resources:

Best Practices for Volunteer Screening

  • Ensure all required documentation is completed before any volunteer activity.
  • Maintain thorough and secure records of all screening outcomes.
  • Provide clear communication to applicants regarding the screening process and its importance for safety.