Department of Corrections policy requires sex offenders who are under supervision not to have contract with trick-or-treaters. Department spokesman John Dipko says all offenders must stay indoors during scheduled community events on Halloween, such as trick-or-treating times. They also are required to make it clear their house is not a place for children to stop. Dipko says that usually means leaving the porch light off and not answering the door.
The DOC is also asking for the public's help watching for sex offenders who violate the policy, by either reporting any suspicious behavior to the state or police. The rule has been in place for several years, but Dipko says this will be the first Halloween where people can find out exactly where sex offenders are living. Families planning a Halloween route are encouraged to check the state registry to find sex offenders live in their area.