Residents of Jackson Township and surrounding areas in Washington County, Wisconsin, are being notified of the imminent release of a registered sex offender. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office disclosed in their social media post that Jeremiah J. Purtell, convicted of possession of Child Pornography in 2011, is scheduled to be released from prison tomorrow. Following his release, he will live at 1725 Cth NN in the Township of Jackson. The post last Saturday stresses that the information aims to augment public safety and awareness.
The notification, rooted in the guidelines of WI Statute 301.46(2m), indicates Purtell's extensive probation period lasting until February 28, 2051. While attempting to reintegrate, the sex offender will adhere to "numerous rules and restrictions" including the constant monitoring by a live tracking GPS unit, Washington County Sheriff’s Office stated. These measures underscore the shifting balance between community protection and the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals into society.
Historically, sex offenders residing within communities wasn't information readily available to the public until the enactment of the Sex Offender Registration and Community Notification Law. Through this law, law enforcement can now share such details with the public, which they believe leads to a more informed and safer public, as highlighted by the Sheriff's Office. Purtell has fulfilled his court-imposed prison sentence and is not wanted by law enforcement at this time.
Public inquiries regarding this case or sex offender regulations can be directed to Probation/Parole Agent Amy Stephens at 262-335-5665 or Sgt. Michael Hennes at 262-365-5054. Additional resources and answers to frequently asked questions are accessible at the Wisconsin Department of Corrections website, where more information on sex offender laws and community safety can be located.
