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Sex Offender Unit
The Regional Sex Offender Notification Unit (RSONU) was formed in 1998 when Washoe County, the City of Sparks and the City of Reno recognized the need for a coordinated regional approach to tracing, monitoring, investigating, and notifying the public about registered sex offenders while also addressing the arrest and prosecution of non-compliant sex offenders.
The RSONU operates as a multi-jurisdictional partnership responsible for carrying out community notification requirements set forth in Chapter 179D of the Nevada Revised Statutes. Its jurisdiction encompasses all of Washoe County, including Reno and Sparks.
RSONU is staffed by a Washoe County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) detective, a Reno Police Department (RPD) detective, a Sparks Police Department (SPD) detective, one full-time and one part-time Nevada State Police Parole and Probation Officers, and a Sparks Police Department Administrative Support Specialist to help with clerical functions. RSONU members also serve as U.S. Marshals Task Force officers and are part of the Nevada Violent Offenders Task Force.
Currently, there are about 1,400 registered sex offenders in the Reno, Sparks and Washoe County area.
OffenderWatch: Community Notification & Search Tool
RSONU utilizes OffenderWatch, the nation's leading sex offender management and community notification system. Through OffenderWatch, our agencies track residency, compliance, and other required information for all registered offenders in Washoe County. This provides the most accurate, real-time data available to the public.
Residents can search for offenders near any Washoe County address and sign up for free email alerts when a registered offender moves within one mile of a chosen location. You may register as many addresses as you wish, and all information remains confidential.
Hours & Contact
- Monday-Friday: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed holidays)
- Phone: (775) 353-2241 ext. 5600
- Email: RPDSONU@reno.gov.