San Bernardino officials consider ordinance to restrict the number of sex offenders living in one location
By Olga Spilewsky and Craig Fiegener
| Tuesday, Dec 6, 2011 | Updated 9:48 PM PST
Craig Fiegener
In one case, more than 20 registered offenders were discovered living in the same Budget Lodge motel near the Colton-San Bernardino city limits. NBC4's Craig Fiegener reports.
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The San Bernardino City Council is trying to decide how to restrict the number of sex offenders living in one location. In one case, more than 20 registered offenders were discovered living in the same Budget Lodge motel near the Colton-San Bernardino city limits.
The Budget Lodge's management said it's a place where offenders can stay in compliance with the law.
"Everybody always said they feel more safe here and it's really quiet," said Budget Lodge front desk manager Kelly Thill.
Some motel customers stay a few days, while others stay a few weeks. And, if the guest has a record, the management will find out about it.
The Budget Lodge is not breaking any rules when it comes to housing sex offenders. The nearest school is about 2,000 feet away. It has recently been remodeled and it offers four different types of rooms. And, it is located in a remote area along the 215 Freeway.
If the city council decides to implement an ordinance to restrict so many registered sex offenders from living in the same motels, it would clash with state law. Currently, there are no rules on the number of people living in one location.
"They have to go somewhere," adds Thill. "It's away from schools and parks."
The city of San Bernardino is home to 600 sex offenders. The Megan's Law website shows several homes are being shared by registrants on release.
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