A sex offender is someone who harasses the opposite sex.
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There are several different levels of what constitutes a sex offender. Some of these crimes can strike some people as quite a bit more serious, but it is important to know that almost all sex offenders really are committing crimes that are sexual in nature. A streaker, someone who runs around naked can be considered a sex offender as can a flasher, who is someone who usually walks around covering their body only to open their coat or clothes to show off their sexual organs. Rapists are considered some of the worst sex offenders with Child Molesters also right up there as the most serious and dangerous sex offenders.

It should be pointed out that a person who commits statutory rape is also considered a sex offender.

The Legal terms defined by each state determines who is considered a sex offender. Sex offenders are separate from child molesters in that their behavior may or may not be harmful to individuals in the future. Some sex offenders are pornography fiends and others are just accused and convicted of a consensual act of sex while others are convicted of inappropriate sexual advances toward another. Tiger Woods and Senator John Edwards could be considered sex offenders. The Senate is actually conducting hearings currently on the ethics of Sen. Edwards's behavior.

In Texas, it takes as benign an act as a boyfriend and girlfriend over two years apart in age engaging in consensual sexual acts. If a parent determines the relationship is harmful to their younger child, they can press charges on their child's behalf, for their welfare, with the authorities. Statutory rape of a minor is a sex offense that is punishable by prison time, and being forced to register as a sex offender for the rest of their life.

Of course, it is never a good idea to just disregard the registered sex offenders in your area. They are not all benign. Some are extremely dangerous individuals with mal-adjustive personalities that can be harmful to your family or members of your community. Being watchful is always the best recommendation. However if you discover the particulars behind the behavior then based on each individual case, one may be able to trust some of these "sex offenders".

Sex offenders....rapists, child molesters, people who have comitted statutory rape...all all sex offenders by law. Generally a sex offender is anyone who has performed an illegal act regarding sex.