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In Johnson City, Tennessee, probation and parole officers are set to conduct home visits on Halloween for sex offenders with convictions involving children. This initiative is part of the Tennessee Department of Correction’s (TDOC) Operation Blackout.
Operation Blackout is a statewide program designed to ensure the safety of children and the general public during trick-or-treating activities. According to a TDOC press release, officers will perform unannounced home inspections to ensure that “high-risk individuals” are adhering to legal requirements on Halloween night.
The TDOC specifies that convicted sex offenders with offenses related to children are prohibited from engaging in certain activities on Halloween. These restrictions are part of the department’s efforts to protect the community.
Tennessee is home to over 26,000 registered sex offenders, with approximately 5,000 of them currently under the active supervision of the TDOC. The operation aims to monitor and manage these individuals, enhancing public safety during the holiday.
Per TDOC, convicted sex offenders whose offenses involved children are not allowed to do the following on Halloween:
- Answering the door to trick-or-treaters on Halloween. Porch lights must remain off and front doors closed.
- Distributing Halloween treats, candy, favors, or gifts to children at their residence or any other home. Offenders may not visit or be present in any residence where these items are being distributed.
- The distribution of treats, candy, favors, or gifts by anyone at the offender’s registered residence.
- Wearing costumes.
- Having a Halloween party at the offenders’ residence.
- Visiting corn mazes, haunted houses, hayrides, or any other seasonal activities, or attending any function where children are gathered, even if it is a private residence.
TDOC reports there are more than 26,000 registered sex offenders in the state, and roughly 5,000 are under active TDOC supervision.
“This is about being present, reinforcing expectations, and helping to ensure families can enjoy the holiday with peace of mind,” Chris Hansen, TDOC’s Assistant Commissioner of Community Supervision, said in the release.
