NASHVILLE - The Tennessee Department of Correction is launching its annual "Operation Blackout" to boost children's safety this Halloween by working to keep registered sex offenders under state probation and parole supervision away from children.
Officers will work with local law enforcement to "saturate" communities in the statewide sweep where they will conduct random visits and compliance checks on more than 3,000 sex offenders from now until Nov. 1.
TDOC officials said in a news release that some 1,100 visits will be conducted on Oct. 31.
"The safety of Tennessee neighborhoods is our number one priority, and we work daily to ensure offenders are in compliance," TDOC Commissioner Tony Parker said in a statement. "Operation Blackout enhances that work and sends a message to offenders that we will do whatever is necessary to protect our children and our communities."
Seasonal restrictions for sex offenders include:
* Remaining in their homes between the houses of 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.
* Not turning on porch lights which signal to children the household is participating in trick-or-treating.
* Not opening their doors for trick-or-treaters.
* Opening their doors only for law enforcement.
* Not displaying fall decorations.
* Not wearing costumes or dressing in disguise.
* Not attending fall festivals or parties.
Last year, TDOC probation parole officers conducted more than 3,000 check on sex offenders during the operation.
