1977 was not a good year for Floyd Wright. Apart from Sanford and Son being canceled, he was convicted of statutory rape. Now, more than 30 years after his conviction, he is forced to find a new home because of Iowa Code §692A.2A (the 2000 foot residency restriction).
The Iowa Supreme Court issued a decision today in Floyd Wright v. Iowa Department of Corrections, Fifth Judicial District. The Court ruled that the law properly prevents Wright from living within 2000 feet of a school or daycare facility. Wright was on probation for Driving While Barred, under the supervision of the Fifth Judicial District Department of Corrections. Because of a change in ownership at his residence, he was forced to move. When Wright gave his new address to his probation officer, he was told it was not appropriate because it was within 2000 feet of a protected facility. Wright attempted to sue the Iowa Department of Corrections for declaratory judgment and requested an injunction. The district court in Polk County rejected Wright's argument, so he appealed. He fared no better with the Supreme Court, who ruled that:
1) The 2000 foot residency restriction applied to Wright because of the 1977 conviction.
2) The application of the statute to Wright was constitutional. Specifically, there were no Equal Protection, Due Process, Bill of Attainder, or Banishment arguments of any merit.
This case is just another float in the parade of injustices that §692A.2A has created. Someone from the legislature please tell me how this scenario protects children!
Iowa is fortunate in one regard with this law. The Iowa County Attorney's Association hates it just as much as criminal defense attorneys. Anyone who mistakes this post for just another defense attorney complaining about something good for society should read their "Statement on Sex Offender Residency Restrictions in Iowa". It gives you all the information that you NEED TO KNOW about this law.
