Fort Collins police post sexually violent predator notice on website

Fort Collins Police Services posted information Wednesday about the release of one sexually violent predator into the community.

The city said the notice was distributed under Colorado law to identify the offender and help protect public safety. Because of the nature of the material, police said it is not advisable for children to view the notification and recommended that adults review the information with them afterward.

According to the bulletin and PowerPoint linked by the city, the individual is Jonathan Hugh Best, born April 9, 1961. The bulletin says Best is living at 3938 Waterglen Place in Fort Collins and was convicted in Webster County, Iowa, on Feb. 12, 2002, of lascivious acts with a child and intent to commit sex abuse.

Police said the individual relocated from Iowa to Colorado and into Fort Collins jurisdiction. The city also said the Colorado Bureau of Investigation determines the status and locations of sexually violent predators, and that Fort Collins police have no legal authority to tell a sex offender where to live unless court restrictions apply.

The city said Fort Collins Police Services counts about 246 registered sex offenders in the city, including 6 classified as sexually violent predators. Officials also warned that anyone who uses the information to harass, threaten or intimidate a registered sex offender, their family or anyone involved in their management could face criminal prosecution.