Local Authorities To Check Up On Sex Offenders On Halloween

Local officers are making an effort to make children safer on the night they head out for tricks and treats. They’re searching for dozens of sex offenders who were supposed to have registered their addresses in Mecklenburg and Union counties, but now cannot be found.

Union County sheriff’s deputies will go door-to-door to make sure those who are registered are still living in the homes. Sheriff Eddie Cathey said it’s a chance to make sure they are where they need to be.

Cathey said he hopes Halloween is also an opportunity to find nine sex offenders who have not registered new addresses. He said he wants parents to take a good look at their photos and be aware they’re out there.

Erica DeForrest, a mother of three, said it’s a relief to hear about all the precautions deputies are taking.

“I think it’s a very good idea. I think the sheriff’s department needs to get more involved in protecting our community, especially when it’s a holiday or a time geared specifically towards kids,” she said.

Officials with the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Department said deputies are already constantly on the lookout for sex offenders violating registration rules, and those efforts will be stepped up for Halloween night.

Officers will visit all 652 registered sex offenders in the county to verify addresses and issue arrest warrants for offenders not living where they’re registered.

Authorities in South Carolina have even instituted a curfew for sex offenders. Those on probation or parole are required to turn off their outside lights between 5 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Wednesday night. This is the third year for the Halloween night curfew.