People in one Mesa neighborhood are up in arms, ready to protest, after a halfway house for sex offenders opened up next door. The couple who owns the home says they are doing God's work, and they want to give the men a second chance. The home opened for business on November 21, off the Loop and Power Road. It is located in the Desert Uplands neighborhood at 80th and Willetta streets. Three sex offenders currently reside in the home. And the owners, Deborah and Steve Schmidt said they want more.
He forgives all sins. The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office told ABC15 they did a check on the home to make sure the sex offenders are registered to live there, but that's the only involvement they've had in the whole process. The battle began when the Schmidt's sent out an invitation, inviting the neighborhood for a meet-and-greet to get to know the residents. The whole situation has neighbors scared for their children and angry the home could even open up.
Of the three men, Travis Deen Owens was convicted of sex abuse. And Michael Maurer is a convicted child molester. The invite for the Saturday party will have some unwanted guests, as neighbors say they plan to protest in front of the home. Maricopa County officials said the home is required to have a special use permit.
As of Thursday night, they could not confirm if the Schmidt's have one. The neighbors have started a complaint with the zoning department. And zoning official said they will inspect the area and see if the home is in violation of zoning laws. Report a typo. Actions Facebook Tweet Email. Neighbors upset over sex offender home in Mesa. Residents in Mesa are upset about a new home for sex offenders near the Loop and Power Road.
By: Kim Tobin. They expect to inspect in the neighborhood within the next 30 days. Sign up for the Headlines Newsletter and receive up to date information. Click here to manage all Newsletters. We're here to listen.
