Berrien County Prosecutor’s Office Statement Regarding Michigan Sex Offender Registry Changes
Berrien County Prosecutor’s Office Statement Regarding Michigan Sex Offender Registry Changes
The Berrien County Prosecutor’s Office is aware of the recent changes to Michigan’s Sex Offender Registry following the Michigan Supreme Court’s September 9, 2026, decision regarding the Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA).
The Court ruled that the 2021 amendments to SORA cannot be applied retroactively to extend registration requirements for individuals whose qualifying offenses occurred before July 1, 2011. In response, the Michigan State Police, which is responsible for maintaining the statewide Sex Offender Registry, has begun removing individuals from the public registry to comply with the Court’s order.
According to the Michigan State Police, approximately 43,000 offenders were actively registered or required to register before the Court’s decision. As implementation of the ruling began, more than 20,000 individuals were removed from the registry, with those numbers expected to change as the review process continues.
Although the Berrien County Prosecutor’s Office does not maintain or administer the Sex Offender Registry, we have identified instances in which individuals appear to have been removed from the registry in error. Our office is working with the Michigan State Police to ensure that anyone who remains legally required to register under SORA is restored to the registry as quickly as possible.
These developments have understandably raised concerns among victims, law enforcement, and members of our community. We share those concerns. The safety of Berrien County residents remains our highest priority, and we are committed to ensuring that the law is applied accurately and consistently. We will continue working with the Michigan State Police and our law enforcement partners to identify and correct any erroneous removals and to ensure that individuals who are legally required to register remain subject to SORA.
Anyone who believes a registrant has been removed from the registry in error should contact the Michigan State Police Sex Offender Registry Unit. The Berrien County Prosecutor’s Office will continue coordinating with the appropriate agencies to protect public safety and ensure compliance with Michigan law.
