Children trick-or-treating

A 12 year old boy was shot dead in Sumter, South Carolina while trick-or-treating with other members of his family on Friday. The boy’s father and brother were slightly wounded.

Police representatives said that the father and four children decided to go trick or treating to a few homes, while the mother was waiting in the car.

Seconds after they rand the doorbell of the first house, they heard gunshots and saw the boy collapse.

They immediately transported him to the hospital, but unfortunately there was nothing that could be done to save the boy’s life. His father and brother suffered light injuries.

The police have already arrested the shooter, called Quentin Patrick, aged 22. He has already been charged with murder, assault and battery, and he has already contacted an attorney.

Neighbours were all shocked by what happened, but they were not able to give any details as they did not react immediately to the gunshots, thinking it was just Halloween fireworks.

'No Candy at This Residence' Pumpkin

They have already started mailing the pumpkin paper signs to all registered offenders in the state. This way, children and those accompanying them in their ‘Trick or treat’ tour will know that they must avoid those houses.  The pumpkin sign must be posted in full sight, otherwise those involved will suffer the legal consequences.

The approximately 1,200 sex offenders in Maryland received an envelope containing the sign and a list of recommendations such as staying at home, not answering the door and turning off the exterior lights.

The Division of Parole and Probation representatives encouraged the recipients of this letter saying that this is a good occasion to show the community that they are on good behaviour.

This program was initiated in 2005 and a similar one is functioning in Missouri.