KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Department of Correction set Halloween restrictions for sex offenders convicted of crimes against children. Probation parole officers with TDOC will conduct what is known as "Operation Blackout" on Oct. 31.
The annual statewide operation adds a layer of protection to Tennessee communities, according to TDOC. Probation parole officers across the state will visit the homes of sex offenders on Halloween night, checking up on people under TDOC supervision whose convictions involved children.
According to the release, the visits are used to ensure compliance with special restrictions put in place during the holiday. Some of those restrictions are listed below.
- Not answering the door to trick-or-treaters on Halloween. Porch lights must remain off and front doors closed.
- Not distributing Halloween treats, candy, favors or gifts to any children. Offenders may not be present in any residence where these items are being distributed.
- Nobody at offenders' homes can distribute treats, candy, favors or gifts.
The release also said offenders can not wear costumes or have a Halloween party at their residence. According to the release, offenders also can not visit corn mazes, haunted houses, hayrides or any other season activities. Offenders also can not attend any function where children are gathered, even if it is a private residence.
"Operation Blackout is an accountability check,” said Chris Hansen, TDOC Assistant Commissioner of Community Supervision. “It’s also important for others who live at the residence to know the rules in order to avoid unintended consequences - since many of these restrictions apply to the residence itself, not the offender.”
According to the release, there are around 26,000 registered sex offenders in the state and around 5,000 of those people are currently under state supervision.
