Sex offender arrested, suspected of getting too close to parks

A registered sex offender in Jefferson City has been arrested on suspicion of getting too close to McKay Park, a violation of Missouri Sex Offender Registration guidelines.

Last week, Jefferson City police learned about a possible sex offender approaching children around the community. Officers determined the contact was happening near schools, as well as in or near city parks.

Using video of the suspect taken by a resident, police identified the person as Daniel Gessman, 41. Gessman was arrested May 13, and was reportedly uncooperative with investigators. Prosecutors have charged him with being a sex offender within 500 feet of a park with a playground or pool.

In April, Gessman was charged with the same crime, as well as being a sex offender within 500 feet of a school. In 1999, Gessman pleaded guilty to statutory rape.