Illinois AG Urges Halloween Safety Checks

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is urging parents and guardians to take extra precautions this Halloween by checking the Illinois State Police Sex Offender Registry before planning their children’s trick-or-treat routes.

“With many Halloween activities coming up this weekend, I am encouraging parents, grandparents, and guardians to keep their families safe by checking the Illinois State Police Offender Registry before leaving home,” Raoul said. “While Illinois law prohibits child sex offenders from distributing candy, searching the registry is a simple step that families can take before leaving home to ensure everyone has a happy and safe Halloween.”

Under Illinois law, individuals convicted of sex offenses against minors are prohibited from distributing candy or participating in any trick-or-treating or Halloween events involving children under 18. Offenders who are on parole, mandatory supervised release, or probation may also face additional restrictions, such as being barred from turning on porch lights or leaving their homes except for approved work purposes.

As of October 2025, the Illinois Offender Registry listed more than 34,000 registered offenders, including over 20,000 individuals convicted of crimes against minors. The registry, maintained by the Illinois State Police, provides the public with an accessible tool to verify offender locations and enhance community safety.

Raoul’s reminder comes as families across Illinois prepare for Halloween festivities — a time of excitement for children, but also one that calls for vigilance and awareness from parents and guardians to ensure a safe celebration for all.