Law enforcement warns of sex offenders in neighborhoods

WACO, Texas (KWTX) – As trick-or-treating heads out the door, McLennan County law enforcement is doing everything it can to keep everyone safe without ruining the spirit of Halloween.

McLennan County Adult Probation Director William “Chip” Seigman says there are 168 registered sex offenders in the county, all of whom must not have any jewelry, have no porch lights on, and cannot leave the house between 5:00 pm tonight and 6:00 pm tomorrow. morning.

The McLennan County Sheriff’s Office says they will be assisting the adult parole team to patrol areas and check on offenders.

35 registered offenders in McLennan County are exempt from this arrest for work or health reasons or if they are in custody; but they are still controlled by law enforcement agencies.

“Criminals know that we require this of them, and the public knows that we are looking for criminals and checking where they should be,” Seigman said.

In Bell County cities like Temple, police departments participate in community celebrations to increase police presence.

Sydney McBride with Temple Police reminds parents and children to be vigilant when trick-or-treating and to stick together in case of an emergency.

“Families should stay together and go in groups, they should stay with their friends, they should stay with their parents, they should have flashlights and cell phones and just be aware of their surroundings,” McBride recommended.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children reminds parents to try to plan ahead and stay together when traveling to new areas.

If you have any doubts about where you plan to travel, you can visit the state website to find out registered offenders.