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SEX OFFENDERS WARNED ABOUT HALLOWEEN

By Ray King/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF
Friday, October 30, 2009 10:48 AM CDT

Registered sex offenders in Pine Bluff have been ordered to stay in their homes from 6-10:30 p.m. on Halloween and not to answer the door to trick-or-treaters.

Pine Bluff police Lt. Bob Rawlinson said a letter was sent to all 186 registered sex offenders in the Pine Bluff area, telling them that they have to comply with a list of rules that included not answering the door, passing out candy or giving any Halloween treats to children.

“The Pine Bluff Police Department believes that the Halloween season is a holiday during which large numbers of children interact with strangers,” Rawlinson said.

“The concern among parents and other community members about sexual offenders in their neighborhoods is naturally intensified during this time of year.”

Other rules that the offenders will have to comply with are that their homes cannot be decorated inside or outside for Halloween, not hosting Halloween parties, going to haunted houses, hay rides or other seasonal activities, attend any function where children are gathered, wear costumes, or take any child trick or treating.

They must also turn their porch lights off, Rawlinson said.

Officers will make announced or unannounced visits to be sure certain offenders are complying, Rawlinson said.

People with questions about the regulations should contact Charlina Lacy at 543-5111 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, Rawlinson said.

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