Police Uncover New Sex Offender in Rancho Mirage

Authorities have identified a registered sex offender who recently relocated to the Rancho Mirage neighborhood in Maricopa. The individual, Richard “Rick” Laverne Vanderhyde Jr., is 53 years old and has a significant criminal history involving sexual offenses.

In March 1995, Vanderhyde, armed with a weapon, sexually assaulted a woman in Arizona. He was convicted on two felony sex charges by June 1996. Notably, he had a previous relationship with his victim at the time of the crime.

Vanderhyde’s current address is 38191 W. San Alvarez Ave., a move from Chandler. His physical description includes being a 6-foot, 260-pound white male with blue eyes and brown hair.

He has multiple tattoos, including a wizard on his right bicep, a dragon on his back, and names inscribed on both forearms: “James Dustin” on the right, and “Ciara” and “Maiya” on the left.

According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, Vanderhyde complies with registration requirements as a level 2 offender, indicating a moderate risk of reoffending.

State law mandates that registered sex offender notifications be distributed to all residents living within 700 feet of the offender, as well as local schools and media outlets, ensuring community awareness and safety.

The Safety Sex Offender Registry is publicly accessible via an online national database, allowing residents to stay informed about registered offenders in their area.