Florida Department of Corrections to Focus on Public Safety and Offender Supervision During Halloween

TALLAHASSEE – To enhance public safety and the safety of Florida’s families this Halloween, Florida Department of Corrections’ (FDC) probation officers will work with local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to ensure sex offenders under felony supervision do not partake in any Halloween-related activities involving minors.

During designated “trick-or-treat” hours, FDC probation officers will make personal contact and conduct surveillance in local communities. Safety efforts will also include surprise visits by probation officers, multiple residence drive-bys and increased surveillance at motels and treatment facilities that sex offenders use.

Secretary Julie Jones said, “The FDC Office of Community Corrections’ top priority is the safety of Florida’s communities. Our officer’s increased vigilanceand collaboration with local law enforcement will ensure that Florida’s children and their parents are able to enjoy a safe and peaceful Halloween.”

In addition to the increased security, sex offenders under supervision have also been given strict instructions regarding their restrictions for the Halloween holiday:

·        Do not give out candy or other treats.

·        Turn off porch lights, close blinds.

·        No outside decorations to attract children.

·        Do not answer the door to trick-or-treaters.

·        Do not dress in costumes or masks.

·        Do not attend Halloween parties where children will be present.

Offenders who do not remain in compliance with the terms of their supervision will be subject to immediate arrest.

Florida citizens can search for sex offenders located in or near their neighborhoods by visiting the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s Offender Search webpage at: http://offender.fdle.state.fl.us/offender/searchNeighborhood.do?actionPerformed=neighborhoodSearchMain.  

http://live.oysterradio.com/