CHULA VISTA, Calif. — The Chula Vista Police Department conducted a citywide compliance sweep this week, checking on registered sex offenders to ensure they are following state law.
The operation is part of the department’s annual effort to monitor offenders and maintain public safety.
More than 40 law enforcement personnel participated in the sweep, including local detectives, members of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the United States Marshals Service. Teams carried out in-person checks at homes across Chula Vista.
“There are 233 that are currently registered in Chula Vista,” said Sgt. Levar Brown. “Yesterday we went to 143 homes throughout the city and contacted 100 people and they were found to be in compliance.”
The checks focus on individuals required to register under California’s Penal Code 290. Officers verify that offenders are providing accurate and up-to-date information, including their home address, vehicles, and other identifying details.
California classifies registered sex offenders into three tiers based on risk level. Tier 2 and Tier 3 offenders, who are considered higher risk, are subject to stricter monitoring and were the primary focus of Thursday’s operation.
“We do those checks to make sure they’re complying with the law basically, and the law is written to help protect the community,” Brown said.
Out of the 143 compliance checks conducted, officers were unable to contact 43 individuals. Police say those cases will require additional follow-up.
“There were 43 people who we were unable to contact, so it’s just going to be further investigation and follow-up to make sure they’re in compliance,” Brown said.
Authorities say anyone found to be out of compliance could face arrest. Police emphasized that the operation is not only about enforcement, but also transparency and community safety.
“This operation demonstrates our commitment to public safety, transparency and collaboration with the ultimate goal of keeping Chula Vista safe,” Brown said.
Officials are also encouraging residents to stay informed by using the state’s Megan’s Law database, which allows the public to search for registered sex offenders in their area.
“I suggest you go on there and check just so you, as an informed citizen, can help to not only keep yourself safe and your family but maybe your neighbors,” Brown said.
The department says these compliance checks are conducted annually and rely on coordination between multiple law enforcement agencies.
Of the offenders contacted during Thursday’s operation, 100 were confirmed to be in compliance. Investigations remain ongoing for the remaining 43 cases.