Home Office: Police Will Be Able to Block Child Sex Offenders From Changing Their Names

The police have been given greater powers to stop registered sex offenders from changing their name, under plans brought forward by the Home Office. Police will be able to block sex offenders from changing or attempting to change their name on official documents such as passports and driving licences without the approval of the authorities. Any person is entitled to change his or her name at will if it is not done for any deceptive or fraudulent purpose. Offenders can change their name by deed poll but must notify the police within three days. Tougher measures, announced by the Home Office, are meant to tackle repeated criminal behaviour by offenders....