I had to respond to Jessica Hutchinson’s letter about the sex offender registry, and let her know I completely agree. I’ve been part of many discussions regarding this subject and find many people oppose the registry. I am in favor of it.

It is there to warn of pedophiles. You against it, shame on you. This is a reminder that these people walk our streets, watch our kids, with but one purpose: to harm our kids. Sex crimes are committed every single day. We all know this.

Everyone, as parents, must protect kids when they can’t protect themselves. You don’t want a warning when one of these people moves into your building, or lives by your child’s school? These people want to take one thing: a child’s innocence, which they will never get back. And they will live with the trauma their entire life.

I am sick of hearing how unfair it is to the offenders. I only hope all of you against the registry don’t ignore the fact these people are all around us. Wouldn’t you like to know how close they are to kids?

I thank Jessica for supporting the registry.

Heather Thomas-Billings, West Paris