The Jackson County Sheriff's Department spent Halloween knocking on doors but they weren't looking for candy.
Deputies were conducting the 2016 "Lights Out Halloween Sweep," to make sure the more than 2200 registered sex offenders in the county were following the rules. A new county ordinance requires sex offenders to:
- Avoid all Halloween-related contact with children
- Remain inside their home from 5:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. unless they are working or have a medical emergency
- Post a sign saying no candy or treats are available
- Turn off all outside lighting at 5:00 p.m.
Jackson County Sheriff's Deputy James Rider said it's, "To make sure they're not tempted to do something but also the community safety of the kids and parents out walking around."
His partner for the evening, Jackson County Deputy Sheriff James Armster added, "Children have to be protected, the community has to be protected. It's part of serving the community with the expectation of experience and professionalism."
There were no arrests in the Halloween sweep in 2015.
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Dia Wall can be reached at dia.wall@kshb.com.
