JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The number of sexual offenders and predators varies significantly among ZIP codes in Duval County.
Action News pulled numbers from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement database Monday.
"It's alarming when you look at the people around you," said criminal defense attorney and father Randy Reep. "It freaks me out when I look it up."
Action News found the three ZIP codes with the highest number of offenders and predators include 32206, 32209 and 32218.
Reep said the law is partially to blame for the concentration.
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According to the law, state housing restrictions vary according to the crime, and when the crime is committed, but when victims are under the age of 16, offenders and predators must live more than 1,000 feet away from schools and playgrounds. In Duval County, that limit is extended to 2,500 feet.
"They have boundaries coming from all angles, so you'll find that counties with these rules actually dramatically restrict where people can live, which is all the more reason you see pockets develop," explained Reep.
Reep said another factor is the cost of housing. He says many offenders and predators live in less expensive areas because they are limited in their employment options.
Click here to search FDLE's Sexual Offenders and Predators database.
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