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Sex Offenders In Orange County Will Need Permission To Go To Beaches, Parks

SANTA ANA (AP) —  Beginning next month, registered sex offenders will no longer be allowed in some Orange County beaches, parks and harbors without prior approval from the county.

The Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the ordinance Tuesday. Violators could face up to six months in jail or a $500 fine.

The restrictions apply to county recreational areas frequented by children including the Orange County Zoo, Sunset Beach Park and Newport Harbor.

The ordinance was proposed by Orange County District Attorney Tony Rackauckas and county Supervisor Shawn Nelson.

Erin Runnion, whose 5-year-old daughter, Samantha, was kidnapped and killed in 2002, urged the county supervisors to approve the ordinance.

The law takes effect May 5.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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