Nicholas Vanallen, a Tier III sex offender, was arrested late Friday night for violation of his probation, but was released on his own recognizance at a hearing today, said Capt. Matt McElwee, commander of Franklin Precinct Three. His court date is pending.

Vanallen, 24, of Baltimore, was arrested after reports that he was consistently hanging out in the St. Thomas Parish Cooperative Day School's parking lot during dismissal periods, McElwee said.

Sex offenders in Maryland are graded from Tier I to Tier III based on the severity of their offenses, the third being the most serious. Tier III offenders are required to register themselves every three months for life, while Tier 1 and 2 must register for 15 and 25 years, respectively, after the offense.

Vanallen's last listed address on the Maryland registry is 523 Old Orchard Road in Baltimore.

It's not uncommon that offenders are released before a court date is set, McElwee said. It means the judge doesn't consider the defendant a flight risk.

For a list of frequently asked questions about sex offenders in Maryland, visit the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services website.