Registered Sex Offenders Banned From Halloween Activities

Sonia Hernandez’s neighborhood is very popular for trick-or-treating.

“Oh, God! We’re busy about maybe 5:00 p.m. until late,” she said.

So, it’s a scary thought that registered sex offenders might participate in Halloween.

“They shouldn’t be anywhere around children,” said Hernandez’s neighbor Michele Palomares. “To me, that’s a ‘Come over here. I have candy.'”

The Board of Supervisors decided to change Riverside County’s anti-loitering law. Effective immediately, registered sex offenders can’t have any Halloween decorations at their homes all day on October 31; they cannot have any lights turned on starting at 5:00 p.m.; and, they can’t answer their door to trick-or-treaters.

At Tuesday’s meeting, Supervisor Bob Buster asked whether there was enough time to notify the registered sex offenders. Halloween is less than two weeks away, and there are about 3,500 registered sex offenders in the county.

Supervisor Jeff Stone said there was enough time.

The county will mail notices right away. But, some residents told News Channel 3 they’re surprised it took this long to pass the law and wondered if offenders will obey it.

“Do they follow a lot of the rules that come out?” asked Palomares. “Some of them will. Some of them won’t.”

“Oh, I hope so!” said Hernandez. “But, then again, not all of them register when they’re supposed to.”

It’s unknown how the county will enforce the new rules. But, violators face a fine and jail time.

Parents say the best way to keep your kids safe this Halloween is to go with them treat-or-treating. Walk with them to every door. If the lights are off, move on to the next home.