Halloween is a fun time for children, but it can also be a stressful time for parents. When you get excited about costumes and sweets, it’s easy to forget about safety. One concern for many parents is the possibility that their children will encounter a registered sex offender while trick-or-treating.
To help parents keep their children safe, the Department of Justice has released an app called NSOPW (National Sex Offender Public Website). This app allows parents to easily map the location of registered sex offenders in their neighborhood or other areas.
The NSOPW app uses your phone’s GPS location to map convicted and registered offenders within a three-mile radius. This information comes from state databases, county sheriff’s departments, and tribal land governing bodies. Each offender is pinned on the map by their last reported residence, and you can tap the pin to get more information, including a mug shot, description, and conviction details. In some states, the app may also provide the offender’s business address, vehicle information, and driver’s license number.
One of the key features of the NSOPW app is the ability to search for a specific address, even if it is outside your current location. This is helpful if you’re planning to trick-or-treat in another area, or if you’re just interested in a particular area.
The NSOPW app is free to download on both iPhone and Android devices. You can also access the same information through the National Sex Offender Public Website. With this app, parents can rest assured that they have the information they need to keep their kids safe this Halloween.
Disclaimer: It is important to note that laws regarding sex offenders and Halloween vary by state. Always check local laws and regulations.
