Petaluma police warn community about release of high-risk sex offender

PETALUMA, Calif. (KGO) -- Petaluma police are putting out an alert warning families that the state is releasing a high-risk sex offender into their midst Friday.

Jonathan Hoppner is only 23-years-old, but has served his time for molesting a child under 18.

Police say they objected to his release into Petaluma, but they don't have any say in where he lives.

Officers stress, their warning to residents can not be used as an excuse to harass or harm Hoppner.