Officers to check sex offender Halloween compliance during ‘Operation Blackout’

JACKSON, Tenn. — Kids all across Tennessee are gearing up for Halloween, and the Tennessee Department of Correction is taking extra steps to ensure their safety.

“Operation Blackout” is the massive annual sweep to make sure registered sex offenders follow strict guidelines during the fall holiday season.

Hundreds of probation officers will be working with local law enforcement to conduct random compliance tests.

Seasonal restrictions for sex offenders include:

– Will remain in their homes between the hours of 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.

– Will not have porch lights on as is the custom to participate in trick-or-treating.

– Will not open their doors for trick-or-treaters.

– Will only open their doors for law enforcement.

– Will not be allowed to display fall decorations.

– Will not be allowed to wear costumes or dress in disguise.

– Will not be allowed to attend fall festivals or parties.

In 2015, TDOC probation parole officers conducted more than 3,000 checks on sex offenders during Operation Blackout.