Audit Uncovers Michigan State Police’s Lapses in Managing Sex Offender Registries
Recent scrutiny of the Michigan State Police (MSP) by the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) has revealed notable issues in the management of the state’s sex offender registries. This evaluation, spanning from February 2023 to July 2024, highlights several administrative shortcomings.
Significant among the findings is the issue of MSP’s inadequate control over security access to the registries. The audit discovered that during the observation period, account access was poorly managed. Inactive accounts were not automatically disabled, and many accounts retained access without proper authorization.
Alarmingly, 80% of the sampled state users with registry access lacked documented access authorization forms, and one individual had more privileges than necessary.
The OAG classified this as a “material condition,” suggesting it could hinder effective management. A related issue was MSP’s oversight of a third-party service operator.
Responding to these findings, MSP agreed to strengthen security and access controls. MSP spokesperson Shanon Banner emphasized the agency’s commitment, stating, “While it is the responsibility of registering agencies to update the data and ensure its accuracy, we are committed to doing all we can to provide improved training and guidance to those charged with the responsibility of registering offenders.”
Despite these challenges, the audit deemed the overall reliability of the registry data as “sufficient, with exceptions.”
In terms of data reliability, two findings were categorized as “reportable condition,” a tier below “material condition,” yet still significant. The audit attributed inaccurate registrations and improper cancellations to insufficient training and guidance.
From a sample of 45 registrants, 20% had incorrect data, including errors in conviction dates, offenses, or registry durations. Additionally, some registrants were not removed from the registry in a timely manner.
Overseeing the registry, MSP acknowledged the audit’s conclusions and has initiated several statewide training sessions for local law enforcement to improve data management.
Another issue was tracking registrants who relocated out of Michigan. In a 60-person sample, four cases lacked proof of relocation. The audit recommended verifying registry address data with driver’s license records.
MSP agreed to these recommendations and confirmed ongoing efforts to enhance training and update records. Banner added, “We will continue to perform data accuracy reviews and in response to these findings, we will better clarify the roles and responsibilities for completing the (System and Organization Controls) report and will review access control policies and procedures.”
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