ARKANSAS, USA — With Halloween just around the corner, Arkansas law enforcement is reminding communities that sex offenders face extra restrictions during the spooky holiday.
In March 2019, the Arkansas General Assembly approved Act 463, which places restrictions on Level 3 and 4 sex offenders during Halloween and Halloween-related events.
The law defines a Halloween-related event as an event involving children to celebrate the holiday that occurs anytime during the two weeks before or after Oct. 31 every year.
Halloween-related events may include trick-or-treating, a costume party, or an event involving wearing costumes and handing out candy to children.
Level 3 and 4 sex offenders are prohibited from handing out candy to children and wearing a mask or other costume as part of a Halloween-related event if a minor is present.
The Benton County Sheriff's Office said the goal of the law is to "minimize any chance of interaction with children during trick-or-treating."
BCSO said offenders may be required to stay indoors with outside lights turned off during trick-or-treating hours in order to keep kids from approaching their homes.
Law enforcement may increase monitoring of these offenders during this time to ensure the rules are being followed, and offenders may be required to check in with law enforcement or be subject to added oversight, BCSO explained.
"Local communities may be notified about the presence and restrictions of these offenders to ensure that parents and guardians are informed about the measures in place," BCSO said.
Any violation of the restrictions is a Class D felony.
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