The City of Peoria, located just northwest of Phoenix, Arizona, has issued a notice to level 2 and level 3 registered sex offenders that they may not participate or appear to participate in Halloween activities involving children of any age. "This means that their home can not have any decorations, they must keep their outer lights off so as not to appear to be handing out candy. They are also prohibited from attending Halloween gatherings where children are present."
Sex offender laws and sentences are determined by the State of Arizona, and I don't believe that individual cities have variations on those laws. I was unable to find any statutes relative to registered sex offenders and Halloween. I was advised that the stipulations are part of the sex offender parole restrictions, but I was not able to confirm that all sex offenders have the same parole restrictions. And, of course, not all registered sex offenders are on parole.
In any case, the message is clear. If you have children who are going to be out trick-or-treating, use common sense! Check the Arizona Sex Offender Registry online and know which residences should be avoided. That database allows users to enter an address and find out which registered sex offenders (levels 2 and 3) are within three miles of your address.
Sex offender laws and sentences are determined by the State of Arizona, and I don't believe that individual cities have variations on those laws. I was unable to find any statutes relative to registered sex offenders and Halloween. I was advised that the stipulations are part of the sex offender parole restrictions, but I was not able to confirm that all sex offenders have the same parole restrictions. And, of course, not all registered sex offenders are on parole.
In any case, the message is clear. If you have children who are going to be out trick-or-treating, use common sense! Check the Arizona Sex Offender Registry online and know which residences should be avoided. That database allows users to enter an address and find out which registered sex offenders (levels 2 and 3) are within three miles of your address.
- Make sure your children know not to enter anyone's home (that you have not approved) for any reason.
- Your children should know that if it seems to be taking a long time for someone at a residence to get the candy or engages in too much conversation, they should leave. A trick-or-treat visit shouldn't take more than a minute.
- Young children going door-to-door should be accompanied by an adult.
- Older children going door-to-door should always trick-or-treat in groups and stay with their group.
- If possible, discourage door-to-door trick-or-treating altogether. Find a community party or festival where your family can enjoy Halloween fun together safely.
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