“Operation Blackout” Keeping Children Safe From Offenders This Halloween

The State Department of Corrections has launched, “Operation Blackout” to keep children safe from sexual predators this Halloween.

Putnam County Sheriff Eddie Farris said his department will be assisting to ensure all registered offenders follow rules regarding trick-or-treating.

“They can not have (outdoor) lights on during Halloween,” Farris said. “Can’t do any trick-or-treating. Can’t hand out any candy. No contact with any children. So they go out to make sure they know the rules and make sure this is going to happen.”

Farris said about 120 registered sex offenders currently reside in Putnam County. Farris said parents can visit the TBI Sexual Offender Registry to find the addresses.

Unannounced home checks will take place all month leading up to Halloween. On Halloween, the Department of Corrections will be out in neighborhoods conducting compliance checks, as well.

Farris said some best practices include traveling in numbers and keeping a cell phone handy.