ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. – A long-standing Missouri Halloween statute for registered sex offenders has been abolished, striking down the requirement for posting warning signs outside of their homes.
Since 2008, state law mandates that offenders stay indoors, keep their lights off, and display the signs to warn trick-or-treaters.
Hazelwood resident Thomas Sanderson challenged the law after he was arrested days after Halloween 2022 for having a large display and handing out candy. Sanderson claimed the law forced him to express a message he didn’t agree with.
Judge John Ross agreed it violated Sanderson’s freedom of speech, ending the sign requirement while leaving the rest of the restrictions intact.
Megan Marietta with the Children’s Advocacy Center reminds the community, “Sex offenders are among us, whether they have a sign in their yard or their light on or off, so having that due diligence no matter where you are is very important.”
The debate highlights a broader discussion about balancing public safety with constitutional protections.
Marietta added, “It’s our responsibility as a community to make sure that children are safe, whether that’s in our own homes or in the greater community.”
In response, St. Louis communities are exploring alternatives like trunk-or-treat events with pre-registered vendors. The City of Crestwood’s Parks and Recreation Department is set to kick off Halloween on Oct. 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Whitecliff Park. They’re also hosting a trunk-or-treat event for ages 1-5 on Oct. 29 from 10-11 a.m. at the community center.
Megan Reininger, the recreation specialist for the City of Crestwood Parks and Rec, is hoping the events give more families an opportunity to celebrate the holiday together.
She shared, “When Halloween lands on a weekday, it’s extremely challenging for parents to participate. So this gives them an option on the weekend during the day when they may not have as much going on to come and participate, and we’d love to have the kids out here!”
For parents that are still feeling anxious over their kid’s safety, advocates encourage families to talk honestly and openly with their children about the resources available to them.
Marietta stated, “For children, for them to just understand that if an adult does harm them, that it’s never their fault, and they do need to go and tell an adult they trust, and tell adults until an adult helps you.”
Officials suggest planning ahead with children before the holiday. Chaperoning your children, educating them to only approach well-lit houses, and reviewing emergency procedures.
