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On 8/28/2008, Senate Bill 714 went into law, thus expanding the requirements for individuals residing in Missouri who are mandated to register as sex offenders. Part of these expanded requirements, as outlined in Section 589.426 RSMo., included a Halloween provision that requires registered sex offenders to:
(1) Avoid all Halloween-related contact with children;
(2) Remain inside his or her residence between the hours of 5 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. unless required to be elsewhere for just cause, including, but not limited to, employment or medical emergencies;
(3) Post a sign at his or her residence stating, “No candy or treats at this residence”; and,
(4) Leave all outside residential lighting off during the evening hours after 5 p.m.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the general public, and especially those parents with children who will be out trick-or-treating on Halloween night, that the Missouri Sex Offender Registry web site offers many useful search capabilities. Foremost among these is the ability to “map offenders” by entering an address and mapping sex offenders that reside within a given radius around that address. The mapping function can include a range from 1,000 feet up to 15 miles. This function may be accessed by clicking on the following link: http://www.mshp.dps.mo.gov/CJ38/AreaSearch
Questions regarding any information contained within the Sex Offender Registry web site can be directed to MSHP sex offender registry personnel at 1-888-SOR-MSHP (767-6747) or mosor@mshp.dps.mo.gov
Halloween can be fun for everyone, with parties, costumes, decorations, and treats. The Missouri State Highway Patrol urges everyone to keep safety in mind as they celebrate this holiday. If you plan to be out a-haunting on Halloween, remember to pay special attention to trick-or-treating children, treats, and motorists. Here are some tips to make this Halloween a safe one:
TRICK-OR-TREATERS: Keep costumes short to prevent tripping and consider make-up rather than masks. Masks can make it difficult for children to see oncoming traffic. Wear light-colored clothing or add reflective tape to dark costumes to make them visible. Flame resistant costumes are the best ones.
Trick-or-treaters are urged to do so while it is light outside. If you go out later, take a flashlight with you. An adult should always accompany small children, and older children should stay in groups. Tell your child to approach familiar houses that are well lighted. Remind them they should never enter a stranger’s house or vehicle!
TREATS: When handing out treats at home, make sure the goodies are well wrapped. Consider handing out pencils, pens, erasers, small party favors, etc. instead of candy. Be sure to remind your own trick-or-treaters to wait until they return home to sample treats. That way, an adult will be able to check treats for evidence of tampering.
DRIVERS: Stay alert! Young children excited by Halloween could dart in front of your car. So, slow down and drive with extra caution.
ADULTS: Consider spending Halloween at home answering the front door. If you do attend a Halloween party that includes alcohol, make sure you have a sober, designated driver for the trip home. Alcohol, even in small amounts, slows reaction time and dulls the senses. Drinking alcohol could have a sad and possibly deadly result.
Halloween is a time for “scary fun”. Parents, take the time to trick-or-treat with your children for their safety and your enjoyment. Afterward, you might be able to talk them out of a treat! The Missouri State Highway Patrol wishes all a safe, happy Halloween!
