Fresh York Man Sentenced for Failing to Register as Sex Offender in Pennsylvania

SCRANTON, PA – Darnell Ney, 42, of Attica, New York, has been sentenced to 48 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release for failing to register as a sex offender after relocating to Pennsylvania. The sentencing was handed down by United States District Judge Karoline Mehalchick, as announced by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania .

Details of the Case

Ney was initially indicted by a federal grand jury for violating the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) . He failed to comply with registration requirements after moving to Pennsylvania. The initial indictment was made in February 2026 .

Previous Legal Issues

Prior to this sentencing, Ney, age 39, had pleaded guilty to fourth-degree grand larceny and bail jumping although serving a state prison term for a domestic violence conviction . He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 25 for these additional charges.

Importance of Sex Offender Registration

The Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) is a federal law requiring sex offenders to register with state authorities. This registration is intended to help law enforcement monitor sex offenders and to provide information to the public to enhance community safety.