A recent ruling by U.S. District Judge John Ross deemed a Missouri law mandating registered sexual offenders to post yard signs on Halloween as unconstitutional. The 2008 law required offenders to display signs stating 'No candy or treats at this residence' on October 31, but Judge Ross found this provision to violate the First Amendment by compelling speech and infringing on individuals' freedom of expression.
While the ruling struck down the sign requirement, other aspects of the Missouri law remain intact. Offenders on the registry are still obligated to stay indoors from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Halloween and keep their outdoor lights off during that time.
