'The best deterrent is vigilance'

PACE — Pace Rotary’s recent guest speaker was James Parker, assistant state attorney in the 1st Judicial Circuit of Florida. Parker spoke to Rotary members about the impact of today’s technology on children’s safety.

Unlike in the past, sexual predators can now enter a victim’s home with just the click of a button.  Parker shared the importance of parents, grandparents and caregivers familiarizing themselves with the websites and apps being used by children in their care. 

When Parker became a prosecutor in 1985, there were no sex offender registries and no way of tracking a predator once released from custody. This changed by the mid-1990s when nationwide registries were created to allow individuals and law enforcement to gain a better awareness of those living in their communities. 

There are currently 414 registered sex offenders in Santa Rosa County. The State Attorneys’ office works closely with law enforcement, families and Santa Rosa Kid’s House to ensure that sexual predators are apprehended, punished and held accountable by placement on the registry. 

“However, the best deterrent is vigilance,” a Rotary media release states. “We are encouraged to be aware of what goes on around us and to be mindful of our children’s use of the Internet.”

Pace Rotary meets 7 a.m. Thursdays at Stonebrook Golf Club, 3200 Cobblestone Drive, Pace.

This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: 'The best deterrent is vigilance'