TDOC Halloween Patrol Targets Sex Offender Rules

The Tennessee Department of Correction will deploy officers on Halloween night as part of Operation Blackout, an added layer of supervision for sex offenders whose convictions involved minors. The agency said more than 26,000 sex offenders are registered in Tennessee, with 4,400 under active TDOC supervision.

Officers will check compliance with a set of Halloween-specific restrictions. Sex offenders are barred from answering the door to trick-or-treaters, with porch lights off and front doors closed. They cannot hand out candy, treats, favors or gifts to children at their residence or any other home, nor be present at a home where items are being distributed.

The same rules prohibit costumes, decorations, hosting or attending Halloween parties, and visiting corn mazes, haunted houses, hayrides or seasonal activities. Attendance at any function where children are present, including at private residences, is also off limits.

Chris Hansen, TDOC's assistant commissioner of community supervision, said probation-parole officers will be enforcing the restrictions. "We want families to enjoy Halloween knowing we're doing our part to help keep the community safe," Hansen said.