Georgia's Department of Community Supervision and County Sheriffs are cracking down this Halloween.
“Operation Watchful Eye” is an effort to keep track of registered sex offenders and predators during the trick-or-treating hours.
On Michele Casteel’s block in Douglasville, Georgia, neighbors go all out on Oct. 31. But for some, Halloween has gotten a little too scary.
“I know a lot of kids are no longer allowed to trick-or-treat door to door, because parents are so worried about that sort of thing,” Casteel said.
There are 180,000 registered sex offenders and predators living in Georgia.
“We take this very seriously, but during Halloween, we do enhance our supervision effort to ensure the safest possible Halloween for the entire community,” said the Georgia Department of Community Supervision’s Bert Flewellen.
That’s why on Saturday night probation officers and county sheriff’s deputies will either pay a visit to each and every offender, or order them to report to a supervised facility.
In Douglas County, each offender will be required to report to the old county jail.
"We're keeping an eye on these offenders. This is a time of year that it's heightened, but we're keeping an eye on them at all times," Chief Probation Officer Christy Thomas said.
No registered offenders around Douglasville could be reached for reaction, but Thomas said most do not object to the Halloween rules since it ensures they cannot be falsely accused.
“It helps to know those people aren’t answering the doors, and they’re not home. So, maybe you don’t have to worry quite so much as a parent,” Casteel said.
About the Author
