As Halloween approaches, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has issued a cautionary statement to parents regarding the safety of their children during trick-or-treating. Law enforcement agencies across the state will be on high alert to ensure children's safety, particularly from sex offenders.
"State law prohibits sex offenders from participating in Halloween activities around children, including wearing masks and giving out candy. Sex offenders should turn off their lights and follow any directions their local sheriff’s office has given them for Halloween night. And if they fail to comply, these offenders may be arrested. There’s nothing we take more seriously than the protection and safety of our kids. Have a safe and Happy Halloween!” stated Attorney General Liz Murrill.
The legal statutes governing these requirements for sex offenders during Halloween are outlined in La. R.S. 14:313 and La. R.S. 14:313.1.
Louisiana State Police maintain a State Sex Offender and Child Predator Registry available online for parents to verify if predators reside in their vicinity: https://www.icrimewatch.net/louisiana.php
Attorney General Murrill also provided several safety tips for parents:
- Avoid homes with the lights off.
- Never enter a stranger’s home.
- Never let your child trick-or-treat alone.
- Bring flashlights for when it gets dark.
- Check your children’s candy, especially the packaging, before they consume it.
Happy Halloween everyone!