FAC Weekly Update 2024-05-02-Stop Paper Arrests-Know Registry Requirements

Dear Members and Advocates,

Have you heard the terms “Paper Arrest” or “Paper Felony?”  It is not likely that the general public knows what we are talking about because it only seems to apply to Persons Forced To Register (PFR).

A Paper Arrest, or also called a Paper Felony, is when some error or omission in your registration paperwork results in an arrest because of the inaccuracy of the data you reported to your Sheriff’s office and, in turn, reported to FDLE.

That’s right… no contact, no repeat offense, no intentional crime….but rather an oversight on a person’s registration paperwork that can result in a third-degree felony just for being unaware, forgetful, have a language challenge, or possibly have a reading disability like Dyslexia.  While these are more often honest, human actions, these are also reasons to arrest a PFR, detain them, risk loss of employment and income, and destroy lives.  If you are a registered citizens or have a loved one on the Registry, please review this information with them.

Here are a few examples of Paper Arrests recently encountered and reported to FAC:

1. The utility trailer that has been stored under the old oak tree in the backyard and hasn’t moved in five years….MUST BE REPORTED.  It requires a vehicle registration with DMV and therefore is the same the vehicle you drive every day.
2. Transposing two numbers in your work/personal phone number.
3. Being one-digit off on an address.
4. Not updating the Tag number on your roommate or spouse’s vehicle when they got new plates, even though its the same vehicle that has been reported for 10 years….DMV replaces license plates every 10 years!
5. Not removing a former employer from your registration, even if your current employer is accurate.
6. Failure to register an Internet ID or APP that triggers the REQUIREMENT to register.

You don’t have to wait until your next registration date.  Take out your last paperwork, read it carefully, and check for anything in error or unintentionally omitted. Some information can be reported online using the FDLE Cyber Communication System (CSS).  Click here for CSS Instructions.

Click here for a Summary of Florida Reporting Requirements

Join the FAC Membership Call tonight May 2, 2024 at 8pm ET when we will be discussing Reporting Requirements and common “Paper Felonies” that can be avoided. To participate, call 319-527-3487.  If you have any problem connecting to the call for free, you can text CALL ME to 319-527-3487 for a call back from Free Conference Call and you will be connected to the meeting at no charge.

When in it doubt – cover yourself!

Sincerely,

The Florida Action Committee (FAC)