Florida Department of Corrections Probation Officers partnered with state and local law enforcement agencies across the state on Halloween night to ensure sex offenders and predators under felony supervision did not take part in any holiday-related activities and enforced court ordered conditions.

“The operation was successful, and the vast majority of offenders were in compliance,” FDC officials said in a release. “Those offenders who were found to have violated their terms of supervision were promptly taken into the custody of local law enforcement.”

“I am immensely proud of our staff for the vital role they play in public safety, especially on a night like Halloween,” said the Florida Department of Corrections Secretary Ricky Dixon. “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, children and their families around the state were able to safely trick-or-treat within their local communities without fearing those who may wish them harm. We want to thank our dedicated staff and our law enforcement partners for their efforts in upholding time-honored traditions here in Florida.”

“This annual initiative is one of the many ways we follow Governor DeSantis’ lead in prioritizing public safety and upholding our duty to maintain public safety,” said Assistant Deputy Secretary of Community Corrections Joe Winkler. “This joint effort was enhanced by the support of our law enforcement partners across the state including our state agencies, sheriff’s offices, and police departments. Again, I want to personally thank every member of our staff who took the time to make sure our communities were safe during Halloween.”

Agencies taking part included the Lee County Sheriff’s office.

FDC probation officers conducted the following:

• Approximately 5,600 home visits

• Approximately 2,800 walkthroughs

• Approximately 1,100 identification checks

• Approximately 230 searches

• Approximately 90 on-site drug tests

Ten offenders were booked for violations of probation.

Source: Florida Department of Corrections.