Police will check on child molesters tonight

DOWNEY - Halloween traditionally brings out children knocking on doors seeking candy, treats and party favors. The safety of those children on Halloween night is the focus of parents, police and community agencies.To that end, the Division of Adult Parole Operations Region III and the Downey Police Department will conduct Operation Safe Halloween, also known as "Operation Boo", within the city on Monday. This program is designed to promote a safe Halloween for children by minimizing the exposure of children to individuals with a history of crimes against children under the age of 14. Parole agents, assisted by detectives from the Downey Police Department, will randomly make face-to-face checks on those convicted of child molestation or sexual assault on victims under the age of 14. These contacts will primarily occur at the parolee's homes, place of employment or designated location. This is to coincide with peak "Trick or Treat" hours. These checks will take place between the hours of 7 p.m. to midnight on Monday, Oct. 31. As part of the program, parolees will be advised that they may not post, drape decorations on their residence or advertise any Halloween event that may attract children to interact with them. Additionally, designated parolees will be instructed that the lights in their home can not be readily visible from the street.

********** Published: October 27, 2011 - Volume 10 - Issue 28