MADISON — Local law enforcement agencies across the state will work with Wisconsin Department of Corrections this Halloween to monitor sex offenders on probation or parole.
As part of an annual partnership, the DOC Division of Community Corrections probation and parole agents along with local agencies will conduct random home visits on high-risk sex offenders during trick-or-treat hours.
Individuals on the sex offender registry who are on probation or parole are prohibited from having Halloween decorations inside or outside of their homes. They also may not distribute candy, participate in other trick-or-treating activities and must keep their porch lights off during trick-or-treating.
“Trick-or-treating is a fun Halloween tradition, but it’s also a time to remind children of safe practices while walking their neighborhoods," DOC director of Sex Offender Programs Grace Knutson said in a news release. “As a group, plan your route and stick to neighborhoods with well-lit streets. Younger children should always be accompanied by an adult, and older children should stay in a group. Cell phones are a great way to communicate and track the child’s location."
Wisconsin DOC encourages parents and guardians to get to know their neighborhoods by accessing the Wisconsin Sex Offender Registry website at wistaysafe.gov. Users can search by ZIP code or view offenders within a geographic radius.
Anyone who sees a potential violation can call in the tip line at 877-234-0085. The DOC recommends that the public contact local law enforcement in emergency situations.
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