The Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) has announced strict rules for sex offenders with minor victims for Halloween this year. The annual Operation Blackout event is intended to enhance safety for children during the celebrations next Thursday.
On Halloween night, while many children are out trick-or-treating, TDOC probation parole officers will visit the homes of sex offenders under Tennessee supervision to ensure compliance with special restrictions, according to TDOC. Offenders must keep their house lights off and their doors closed to trick-or-treaters, meaning they cannot answer the front door.
Additionally, TDOC has established a broad ban on offenders participating in Halloween activities. This includes wearing costumes, hosting or attending parties with children, and engaging in seasonal events like corn mazes or haunted houses. Chris Hansen, TDOC Assistant Commissioner of Community Supervision, emphasized the importance of these rules, stating that "Operation Blackout is an accountability check." He noted that all household members must understand and follow the rules to avoid unintended consequences, as restrictions apply to the residency, not just the offender.
With over 26,000 registered sex offenders in the state and about 5,000 under state supervision, this operation by TDOC targets several hundred who are labeled as high risk.
