Datline NBC continued their “To Catch a Predator” series tonight – this is the show about men who target young teenagers over the Internet – after chatting online about sex and then making a date, these guys show up at an undercover house – when they arrive, they are confronted on video by reporter Chris Hansen. Tonight’s episode is focused on Petaluma, CA – but not too long ago they were here in Washington DC.

Coincidently, I received a story suggestion about a website called “Family Watchdog” a few days ago. The Dateline story prompted me to check it out. You can use the site to locate registered sex offenders in your area by entering your zip code into their interactive map – which overlays datapoints onto google maps. You can click through to see photos (if available), addresses, convictions and other information about the offender. If you like, you can also sign up for monthly alerts (free or $24 annually depending on the features).

A review of my local zip code area showed 430 offenders… creepy.