Local law enforcement officers will be checking in on approximately 300 sexual predators and offenders in Marion County on Halloween night to ensure the safety of all trick-or-treaters.
During “Operation Candy Sweep” on Tuesday, October 31, the officers will monitor all sexual predators and offenders in Marion County who are on probation or parole to ensure that they are not celebrating Halloween. Their lights must remain off on Halloween, no decorations are permitted outside their residence, and they are unable to give out any candy.
In addition, detectives will also be visiting community Halloween events throughout Marion County to ensure that sexual predators and offenders are not in attendance.
“Operation Candy Sweep” is a joint partnership between the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Ocala Police Department, and Florida Department of Corrections.
The public can visit the Marion County Sheriff’s Office “Sex Offenders Information” webpage to help ensure that they avoid homes belonging to sexual predators/offenders.
MCSO encourages parents to follow this safety tip: do not trick-or-treat at a house that doesn’t have its lights on. It could be that the residents do not celebrate Halloween or are out of candy. However, it could also be a sexual predator or offender.
“Please help us keep your children safe and enjoy your holiday!” stated the Marion County Sheriff’s Office on its Facebook page.