PUTNAM COUNTY, Fla. — Stricter rules are now in place for sex offenders and predators living in parts of Putnam County.

This comes after deputies shut down what Sheriff Gator Deloach called a “predators paradise”, a trailer park packed with offenders, back in February.

Putnam County commissioners have recently enacted a new ordinance that introduces more stringent guidelines restricting where sex offenders can reside, gather, and celebrate.

Residents tell First Coast News that this is long overdue.

Earlier in February, law enforcement shut down a trailer park that was home to numerous offenders and predators, which Sheriff Gator Deloach labeled as a “predators paradise.”

This incident sparked swift action from county leaders.

Under the newly approved ordinance, sex offenders registered in unincorporated areas of Putnam County are now prohibited from living within 2,500 feet of any school, daycare, bus stop, or park, significantly extending the previous state requirement of 1,000 feet.

They also can’t live within 500 feet of one another, unless related by blood, marriage or adoption.

“It’s safer for the kids,” said Amarion Maxwell, a Putnam County resident. 

Clay Beck, another local resident, remarked, “While they deserve housing, it creates a difficult situation. I don’t want to displace anyone, but having them close makes me concerned for my children’s safety.”

There are also new fees for registration: $50 initially, $25 to re-register and $10 to report changes outside the regular updates.

Offenders also can’t participate in Halloween or fall festivals involving children.

Anyone who breaks these new rules could face nearly a year in jail or up to $1,000 in fines.

Cheri Bennett expressed, “Sex offenders shouldn’t be allowed near churches or schools. They must register, and the public should be aware of their locations.”

Yolanda Johnson, a Putnam County native, added, “I just hope they enforce this properly. Often, we share our views as citizens, but nothing changes in practice.”

According to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, this ordinance only applies to unincorporated areas of Putnam County. 

For a full breakdown of this ordinance, you can go to the county’s website or contact the sheriff’s office.