Sex Offender Registry To Keep Nyack Residents Updated Proactively

Concerned parents and caretakers no longer have to check the New York State sex offender registry each time they change their address or move to another town—a new, state-run database can update residents automatically.

Previously, residents had to manually search the state Web site—run by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (NYSDCJS)—to learn if an offender lived nearby. The database is thorough—it lists offenders' crimes, addresses and physical appearances—but can be difficult to stay on top of. According to officials, approximately 170 new offenders are added to the registry each month. Additionally, registry staff processed nearly 31,000 address changes last year alone.

The new system's proactive approach, however, makes staying informed considerably easier. Alerts and updates are sent via e-mail, text message or fax, and will note whenever a listed level two or level three sex offender moves into or out of a community or location indicated.

Risk level one indicates a low risk of repeat offense, risk level two indicates a moderate risk of repeat offense, and risk level three indicates a high risk of repeat offense and a threat to public safety.

To enroll, simply visit NY-Alert and sign up as a user.

In the past, the Nyack School District has acted proactively, as well. When a registered offender moved to Nyack this May, the school quickly issued a press release to parents.

"District police provides in these situations that all information… will be posted in an appropriate location in all district buildings, and will be available upon your request," the release read.

"We are dedicated to the safety of our children while they're in school," it continued.  "All of our schools have strict sign- in/sign-out procedures for our students, and all visitors must first report to the school's main office for a visitor's pass. We have locked doors, security personnel and a buzz in system at each elementary and Middle School. In addition, our school curriculum includes teaching personal safety and stranger awareness skills."

Currently, the Village of Nyack is home to three registered sex offenders; two males and one female. Both males are listed as risk level three, and the female is listed as risk level two.

The Village of Piermont does not house any registered offenders.

Check below for full information on the offenders.

--

• Michael Fonti, age 48, residing at Nyack Hospital at 160 N Midland Ave. Fonti is listed for attempted sexual abuse in the first degree. His risk level is three.
• Beth Gardener/Modica, age 47, residing at 10 Piermont Ave, second floor in Nyack. Modica is listed for criminal sexual acts and rape in the third degree against a 15-year-old male and 16-year-old male. Her risk level is two.
• Michael Koval, age 39, residing at 216 High Ave. in Nyack. Koval is listed for sexual abuse in the first degree against a six-year old female and five-year-old female.