Local

Law enforcement officers monitoring sex offenders on Halloween

FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — Law enforcement officials are reminding registered sex offenders to follow the rules on Halloween.

Investigators with the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office want residents to be aware of where sex offenders live in their neighborhoods.

Danny Bank, with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, suggests parents prepare for Halloween by searching the the sex offender registry because not all sex offenders are banned from Halloween festivities.

People can view the Florida and National Sex Offender Database here to find registered sex offenders.

Deputies with the Sheriff’s Office said they will visit registered sex offenders on Halloween to make sure they’re following the rules and restrictions Tuesday.

Deputies said there are 105 registered sex offenders living in Flagler County. Of those, 21 have specific sanctions stating that they cannot hand out candy or leave their porch light on during Halloween. These limitations are designed to protect children from potential threats from sex offenders or predators, deputies said.

“There are strict rules for sex offenders in order to make sure everyone stays safe,” Sheriff Rick Staly said in a news release. “Halloween is a fun holiday for children and families and we want to make it as safe as possible.”

The rules and guidelines vary by sex offenders and jurisdiction. Many municipalities will go door-to-door to make sure sex offenders on probation are not decorating, dressing up or passing out candy for Halloween.

Deputies with the Volusia County Sheriff's Office said they'll conduct sex offender checks Tuesday night at more than 200 locations.

Deputies said the offenders are not allowed to have lights or decorations at their homes, wear costumes or give out candy.