Jailed sex offender not allowed back to Southboro home

SOUTHBORO, Mass. (WHDH) -- The Southboro community is making changes after a sex offender was found living near a preschool -- and the town’s  police chief says it was all a mistake.

A level-2 sex offender who was recently arrested and jailed on child pornography charges has been living in the home for two years.

Parents were shocked to learn he was living just around the block from a preschool.

“I was really scared. Because my kids. He went to preschool there. Other kids go to schools just down the street,” said Ingrid Manz, mother of three.

The registered offender was violating a town policy.

“It sets up a 1,000 foot safety restriction for existing schools,” said Chief Jane Moran, Southboro Police.

A clerical error led to the oversight.

“This is a bylaw that cannot be administered administratively. It needs a detective function,” said John Rooney, town selectman.

Police implemented the change immediately, with detectives now making regular residency checks.

The bylaw applies to level 2 and 3 sex offenders. There are currently six of them living in the town. A thorough review has found all of them to be in compliance with this policy.

“I feel good. I love this town. I feel everybody will do their best to make things work right,” said Barbara Dyer, mother.

As for the sex offender who is currently jailed, he will not be allowed to move back to his home.

“He has been given notice that he has to move within 30 days. And if he doesn't move, it's a $300 dollar fine for each day hereafter,” said Chief Moran said.

The sex offender is being held on $75,000 bond.