Compliance checks conducted on 73 sex offenders in Newton County on Halloween night
The operation was designed to ensure compliance with RSMo 589.426.
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NEWTON COUNTY, Mo. – On the evening of October 31, 2026, the Newton County Sheriff's Office conducted coordinated compliance checks on 73 registered sex offenders residing in Newton County.
The operation was designed to ensure compliance with RSMo 589.426, which requires registered offenders on Halloween to avoid all Halloween-related contact with children, remain inside their residence from 5:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. unless required to be elsewhere for just cause, and leave all outside residential lighting off.
Deputies were unable to make contact with two registered offenders on Halloween night. Both individuals have since been contacted, and the investigation remains ongoing to determine whether charges will be submitted.
"Halloween should be a night of fun and safety for every child in Newton County," said Sheriff Matt Stewart.
"Families deserve to know that when their kids are out trick-or-treating, we are doing everything we can to protect them," Stewart added. "These compliance checks send a clear message: registered sex offenders will be held accountable to the law, and keeping our children safe will always be one of our highest priorities."
The Newton County Sheriff's Office extends its appreciation to the Diamond, Granby, Seneca, and Neosho Police Departments for their partnership in conducting compliance checks within their respective jurisdictions.
