The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office has launched DeSoto County OffenderWatch alerts, a free tool that lets parents and other residents know when a registered sex offender moves near their home. The sheriff’s office announced the partnership with OffenderWatch this week on its official Facebook page and called it a new public safety resource for families.
What DeSoto County OffenderWatch Offers
According to the sheriff’s office, residents who sign up can:
Receive alerts when offenders move nearby
See up-to-date information kept by law enforcement
Download the OffenderWatch mobile app for more awareness on the go
OffenderWatch is a national sex offender management system used by sheriff’s offices across the country, including other Mississippi agencies. It pulls registry data directly from participating law enforcement agencies, so the information comes from the same records deputies keep. The company says its family safety app is free and lets users search for registered offenders near a home, school, or workplace. OffenderWatch also sells an optional paid upgrade, but residents do not need it to get the basic alerts.
How to Sign Up for Alerts
The sheriff’s office shared a sign-up link for DeSoto County residents in its announcement. To get started:
Visit the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office community alert page at sheriffalerts.com.
Search the registry by address, or register an email address to get notified when an offender registers or moves within a set distance of that address.
Download the free OffenderWatch app from the Apple App Store or Google Play for alerts on your phone.
The announcement used the hashtags #HeadsUpDeSotoCounty and #StayInformed and encouraged families to “take advantage of this free safety resource” for their homes and neighborhoods.
Why It Matters for DeSoto County Families
DeSoto County is one of Mississippi’s fastest-growing counties, and new neighborhoods and schools keep opening in Southaven, Olive Branch, Horn Lake, Hernando, and the county’s smaller communities. Automatic alerts mean parents don’t have to check the state registry again and again to know who has moved in nearby.
Law enforcement officials generally remind residents that registry information is meant to help keep people aware and safe. It should never be used to harass or threaten anyone. If you see suspicious activity or believe someone is not following registration requirements, contact the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office or your local police department. In an emergency, call 911.
