To support Sex Offender Registry operations of the CNMI Department of Public Safety

The Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006 (AWA) (Pub. L. 109-248, 42 U.S.C. § 16901, et seq) authorizes the Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering, and Tracking (SMART) to administer sex offender management grants. These grants assist states, the District of Columbia, U.S. principal territories and tribal jurisdictions in developing and/or enhancing sex offender registration and notification programs that support substantial implementation of Title I of the AWA, known as the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). SORNA was enacted to protect the public from convicted sex offenders and offenders against children by establishing a comprehensive national system for the registration of those offenders.

The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) is facing certain challenges that are hindering its abilities to maintain compliance with SORNA requirements. The Commonwealth has identified a critical need for the training of officers and cooperative agencies; efficient computer hardware and software, as well as internet access; and updated community notification systems. SMART FY 14 AWA grant funds will enable CNMI to become more equipped and maintain compliance with SORNA requirements. ca/ncf