Minister says sexual offenders would not remain on register for life

Justice Minister Rita Tamašunienė says people convicted of sexual crimes would not be listed for life in a proposed public register, LRT reported.

“We need to find a balance with human rights. We understand that these people have committed crimes, but after serving their sentences, they should have protection,” Tamašunienė told reporters.

She said the register would apply for a defined period rather than indefinitely. Courts would decide the sentence and could also order a person to remain on the public register for two or five years after completing it, she said.

In the minister’s assessment, the measure would deter repeat offences while protecting the public’s right to know.

As BNS reported, cases against two priests accused of sexual offences were sent to court this summer.

One priest is accused of sexual offences against 11 minors. Law enforcement authorities have recorded 34 criminal episodes, ranging from forcing children to consume alcohol to sexually assaulting them. The alleged crimes took place over 23 years, from 2002 to 2025. The case has been referred to the Vilnius Regional Court.

In the other case, sent to the Vilnius City District Court, another priest is accused of possessing child pornography. There are no victims in that case.