A law preventing sex offenders in Simi Valley, Calif., from displaying Halloween decorations and opening their doors to trick-or-treaters is drawing national media attention, according to the
Ventura County Star.
The Simi Valley City Council passed the law on September 10 requiring registered sex offenders to post signs on their front doors, saying "No candy or treats at this residence."
In addition it prohibits them from opening their doors on Halloween to children or decorating the outside of their homes or front lawns for the holiday.
The law, however, is being challenged in federal court by five local registered sex offenders, three of their wives, and two of their children. Their lawyer said the Halloween celebration ban violates their constitutional rights because it "suppresses and unduly chills protected speech and expression."
The law has drawn the attention of CNN, Fox News and other national news outlets.
Jeanine Pirro, host of the Fox News program "Justice with Judge Jeanine," said she hopes the law will be upheld.
"Here's the bottom line: predators and pedophiles are repeat offenders," she said. "They are cunning. They are devious. They are waiting for our children to come to their doors."
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