Fresh debate over introduction of Megan’s Law here

THE release of convicted rapist Larry Murphy has sparked fresh debate over whether the details of sex offenders, such as addresses, should be made known to the wider community.

The US has operated ‘Megan’s Law’ since 1994, following the rape and murder of seven-year-old Megan Kanka in New Jersey by a sex offender living in her neighbourhood.

Each state handles sex offender registration and community notification, but must decide on what information is made available and how it is distributed.