NY Sex Offender Dodges Registration in PA

SCRANTON, PA – Darnell Ney, 41, of Attica, New York, is facing federal charges after allegedly failing to register as a sex offender upon establishing residency in Pennsylvania. A federal grand jury returned the indictment yesterday, adding another layer of legal trouble for the already-flagged individual.

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Ney’s alleged failure to comply with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) spanned from July 22, 2024, through approximately February 2, 2025. The indictment claims that despite being legally obligated to update his registration information after relocating to the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Ney deliberately neglected to do so.

This isn’t a simple oversight. SORNA mandates that convicted sex offenders keep their addresses current with authorities, a critical component of public safety. Ney’s alleged actions put communities at risk, and federal prosecutors are taking the matter seriously. The USMS, along with the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Department and District Attorney’s Office in Warsaw, New York, conducted the investigation that led to these charges.

Assistant United States Attorney Tatum R. Wilson is building the case against Ney, and if convicted, he could face a hefty penalty. The maximum sentence under federal law is 10 years imprisonment, followed by a period of supervised release, and a significant fine. However, the final sentence will be determined by a judge, factoring in federal sentencing guidelines and the specifics of the case.

The investigation highlights the ongoing efforts of federal and local law enforcement to track and monitor registered sex offenders. While the indictment is a significant step, it’s crucial to remember that it represents only allegations at this stage. Ney is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it progresses through the federal court system. The complete indictment is on file with the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. We’ll bring you updates as they become available, holding those who skirt the law accountable for their actions.