California officials are stepping in after a registered sex offender — who is running for city council — held a press conference near an elementary school last week.
Rene Campos, 41, who has sought the Fresno City Council’s District 7 seat, has a 2018 conviction for possessing child sex materials. KSEE reported that on Friday, Campos held a press conference outside Saint John’s Catholic Church, which is across the street from Big Picture Academy.
School officials told KFSN that they are exploring their legal options as Campos’ proximity to the school “absolutely” violated the law.
The Fresno Bee reported that Campos pleaded guilty in 2021 to the child pornography charges and was sentenced to two years’ probation.
While Campos has not formally filed to run for city council, Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria of Merced introduced a bill on Tuesday to prevent registered sex offenders from running or holding local or state office.
Meanwhile, Campos described the move as “institutional overreach.” He went on to explain that he chose to hold Friday’s press conference outside of a church as it is a symbol for rehabilitation and forgiveness, according to the Fresno Bee.
Campos has until Friday to formally file to have his name on June’s ballot.
For the latest true crime and justice news, subscribe to the ‘Crime Stories with Nancy Grace’ podcast.
[Featured image: KFSN]
