Before you send the kids out for trick-or-treating, check for sex offenders in your neighborhood.
The state's Sex Offender Registry Web site makes it easy for parents to find out where sex offenders live. Just go to the Wisconsin Department of Corrections website, which will temporarily link you to the family watchdog . You'll be able to find a map of sex offenders' homes in your neck-of-the-woods.
State corrections' Secretary Rick Raemisch says registered sex offenders who are under the Active Community Supervision are prohibited from taking part in Halloween activities, such as leaving their porch lights on during the trick-or-treating hours and answering doors to children asking for treats. They are also prohibited from attending Halloween events where children may be present.
Raemisch reminds website visitors to double check addresses on the map against Wisconsin's Sex Offender Registry Web site, which updates offender address information daily.
In 1997, the State of Wisconsin enacted the Sex Offender Registration and Community Notification Law. This law was created to monitor and track people convicted of sex crimes and to provide access to this information for police, victims and the general public.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of any noncompliant sex offenders should contact local law enforcement or the "SAFE Tip" hotline toll free at 1-877-234-0085 or via email at docsafetips@doc.state.wi.us.