On Oct. 31, 2023, parole agents from CDCR’s Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) participated in the 30th annual Operation Boo. More than 320 parole agents, along with local law enforcement partners, conducted compliance checks on sex offenders. These individuals on parole supervision are not authorized to have contact with minors. Sex offenders must adhere to a curfew and strict guidelines on Halloween.
Operation Boo is part of DAPO’s mission to help keep children safe on Halloween and throughout the year.
“DAPO agents are partners with their communities to help ensure public safety. Operation Boo provides children a safe experience on Halloween while they enjoy evening activities in the community. This highlights our parole agents’ dedication to keeping communities safe year-round,” said DAPO Director Jason Johnson.
2023 Operation Boo results
Parole agents conducted almost 2,000 compliance checks and home visits across the state on Halloween night. As a result, 53 parolees, or 2.7 percent, were found out of compliance with their terms and conditions of parole, with 43 being arrested. For those found to be in violation of parole, they will face possible revocation or local charges in relation to parole violations.
On Halloween, state-supervised sex offenders who are not authorized to have contact with minors are ordered to abide by special conditions of parole on that night, including:
- A curfew from 5 p.m. on Oct. 31 to 5 a.m. on Nov. 1 requiring sex offender parolees to remain indoors
- All exterior lights of their homes must be turned off to discourage children from approaching
- No offering of Halloween candy and no Halloween decorations are allowed
- During the curfew, sex offender parolees can only open the door to respond to law enforcement who are verifying compliance
Visit the Operation Boo webpage for more information, including a parent guide. The tips were compiled by various government agencies, as well as advocacy groups and their experts.
Parole Agents protect our neighborhoods
In addition to Operation Boo, parole agents monitor sex offender parolees in the community year-round. Parole agents and their law enforcement partners analyze patterns of behavior and monitor parolees’ whereabouts via their assigned GPS device. Parole agents also conduct periodic compliance sweeps and work with local law enforcement on Sexual Assault Felony Enforcement teams. They respond to parole violations and make referrals for treatment services in the community.
DAPO is responsible for protecting the community. They enable parole agents to play an active role in public safety plans and supporting parolees in their reintegration into the community. From conducting home visits and administering drug tests to facilitating counseling sessions and assisting with housing and employment opportunities. DAPO agents offer comprehensive support to individuals under parole supervision.
Story by Mary Xjimenez, Information Officer II
OPEC
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