By james art LAREDO, Texas (KGNS) – As Halloween approaches, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding parents of their online Texas Public Sex Offender website, a screening tool for registered sex offenders in their neighborhoods. Recently updated, the site remains a trusted resource for families planning safe trick-or-treating routes.
The website, available on the DPS site or through the iWatchTexas app, allows users to enter an address to view a map pinpointing the location of registered offenders. Parents can use it to make sure they are familiar with the areas around them.
According to the map, there are over 100 registered offenders in Laredo alone, but not all are classified equally. “Depending on the crime they committed, offenders can be low, moderate or high risk,” Sgt. DPS’ Eric Estrada explained. “Parents are reminded to avoid high risk areas, especially when collecting treats.”
The DPS also shared that registered offenders must follow strict guidelines. Across Texas, every person on the registry has received a notice instructing them to be at a designated location between 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. on Halloween night where officers will be present.
Those who do not follow this mandate face jail time.
DPS urges parents to be vigilant not only about their surroundings, but also about the candy their children get.
For more titles, click here.
Copyright 2024 KGNS. All rights reserved.