October 29th, 2025 Local News
St. Francois Co., Mo. (KFMO) - With Halloween approaching, Missouri families are being reminded of the state’s laws regarding registered sex offenders, and a recent legal change that affects what they must do on October 31.
Under Missouri law, anyone required to register as a sex offender must avoid contact with children, stay inside their home between 5 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., and keep their outdoor lights turned off during that time. Violating these restrictions is a Class A misdemeanor. Until this year, offenders were also required to post a sign outside their residence reading “No candy or treats at this residence.” However, a federal court recently struck down that rule, saying it violated the First Amendment.
While the sign requirement is no longer enforced, all other restrictions remain in effect. The Missouri Attorney General’s Office has announced plans to appeal the ruling.
At Tuesday’s St. Francois County Commission meeting, Sheriff Jeff Crites reported that in the county, there are around 1,056 registered sexual offenders, though 661 are currently incarcerated. He explained what the department plans to do for Halloween.
Local law enforcement will continue monitoring compliance with the law throughout Halloween night. Parents are encouraged to plan routes in well-lit areas, accompany young children, and report any suspicious behavior to authorities.
You can see a map of registered sex offdenders in the Parkland by visiting mshp.dps.missouri.gov/CJ38/searchRegistry.jsp.
