Suffolk Police To Add More Patrols, Check Sex Offenders For Halloween

YAPHANK, NY — Suffolk officials said Friday they will instill several public safety measures, including extra police patrols and residency checks for high-level sex offenders, to ensure residents have an enjoyable Halloween celebration.

Noting Halloween is expected to bring an influx of trick-or-treaters to the county's streets, the police department will deploy extra patrols throughout Suffolk, as well as the use of auxiliary police, "in an effort to ensure the safety of pedestrians and prevention of criminal activity," officials said.

Detectives from the Special Victims Section are also conducting checks of high-level sex offenders to verify residency before the holiday, according to officials.

Police Commissioner Rodney Harrison said that Halloween should be a fun time for the whole family, but he and Bellone are asking that parents take "the necessary precautions" to keep their children safe.

"Our officers will be out in force and I would like to remind people who believe Halloween mischief is just a prank — damaging someone's property is a crime," he said.

County Executive Steve Bellone said that while everyone is thinking about what they’re going to dress up as for Halloween, or what their kids will decide to dress up as, "we want to ensure that our residents that the [Suffolk County Police Department] will be out in full force, increasing patrols to enhance safety, help prevent property damage and discourage any mischief."

“As you prepare to celebrate Halloween, be sure to enjoy the holiday, spend time with your family, but do so safely," he added.

Residents are advised to:

• Make sure trick-or-treaters are accompanied by an adult or walking in groups.
• Always walk on sidewalks, when available, and cross the street at intersections.
• Limit trick-or-treating to daylight hours, if possible.
• When trick-or-treating at night, bring flashlights, and wear reflective clothing or bright colors.
• Check candy for signs of tampering.
• Motorists should stay alert and drive with extreme caution, paying special attention to children crossing streets.
• If you see suspicious activity, call 911.