Attorney General Kwame Raoul has issued a reminder for parents and guardians to check the state's sex offender registry before making Halloween plans. This advice is aimed at ensuring the safety of children during trick-or-treating activities.
“With many families planning Halloween activities this week, I am encouraging parents, grandparents and guardians to keep their families safe by checking Illinois’ Sex Offender Registry before leaving home,” Raoul stated. “While Illinois law prohibits child sex offenders from distributing candy, searching the registry is a quick step families can take before leaving home to ensure everyone has a happy and safe Halloween.”
Illinois law specifically restricts all sex offenders who have committed crimes against children from distributing candy or participating in events involving minors under 18. Additional restrictions may apply to those on parole, mandatory supervised release, or probation. These conditions might include prohibitions on having porch lights on or leaving their homes except for verified work purposes.
As of October 2024, over 34,000 registered sex offenders are listed on the Illinois Sex Offender Registry. Of these, more than 27,000 have committed offenses against minors. The registry is managed by the Illinois State Police.