FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
As Halloween approaches, the Nashville police department, in partnership with the Board of Probation and Parole, reminds citizens that certain convicted sex offenders are specifically prohibited from engaging in Halloween-related activities.
Convicted and/or registered sex offenders on probation or parole are restricted from any Halloween festivities and are not allowed to pass out candy or treats. Additionally, convicted, registered sex offenders who are not on probation or parole, and whose victims were minors, are prohibited from pretending to be, dress as, impersonate or otherwise assume the identity of a real or fictional person or character while in the presence of a minor or with the intent of enticing a minor. Police and Probation/Parole personnel anticipate making random checks to ensure compliance.
As is the case every Halloween, Patrol and Flex officers will be paying very close attention to Nashville’s various neighborhoods on Halloween and will take very seriously any attempts to panic citizens by giving children harmful candy items or by committing any type of disruptive behavior.
Parents are urged to closely monitor their children’s trick-or-treat activities and to keep in mind these safety recommendations:
- Trick-or-treaters should carry flashlights.
- Persons should give, and children should accept, only wrapped or packaged candy.
- Children should bring their treats home for adult inspection before the candy is eaten.
- Children should wear light-colored clothing that is short enough to prevent tripping. Reflective tape should be added.
- Make sure children can see well enough through their face masks. Consider make-up or face paint as an alternative.
- Keep costumed children away from pets, particularly dogs. The pet may not recognize the child, become frightened and react in a vicious manner.
- Choose costumes that are flame retardant, and use props, such as magic wands and swords made out of foam rubber or cardboard, rather than metal or wood.
Halloween has been historically safe for Nashville and officers will be working to ensure the same is true Monday. Officers will take a zero tolerance approach to criminal behavior as well as pranks that cross the line.
