Saturday, October 6, 2012

No Trick. No Treat. Franklin Police, Area Law Enforcement Surprise Sex Offenders

Operation RAVEN

In 28 days, thousands of Williamson County children will leave the safety of their homes, destined for the homes of others where the familiar phrase “trick or treat” will be the evening theme. In preparation for that night, 31 law enforcement officers from six agencies left Franklin Police Headquarters today, destined for the homes and workplaces of registered sex offenders who live or work in Williamson County. 

The Franklin Police Department’s Special Victims Unit coordinated Operation RAVEN (Random Address Verification, Enforcement, & Notification), supported today by officials from the Brentwood and Spring Hill Police Departments, the Williamson County Sheriff’s Department, State Probation and Parole, and U.S. Marshals. Chief Deputy U. S. Marshal Thomas Thompson joined Chief David Rahinsky at today’s briefing. Thompson expressed the importance of the mission, and commended area law enforcement agencies for their coordinated efforts. “The Marshals Service is proud to take part in today’s compliance check. We recognize the importance our communities place on ensuring registered sex offenders are in compliance, and I commend Franklin Police for coordinating today’s operation.” 

There are 121 registered sex offenders who live or work in Williamson County. Today, 76% of them were verified to be in compliance with restrictions. Twenty offenders were not found at their listed home or work address today, but investigators will be re-visiting those locations in the coming days. Following today’s operation, investigations into nine possible violations have been initiated. 

Franklin Police Chief David Rahinsky said, “Protecting the children of our community is a top priority. Working with partner agencies, today’s operation and our ongoing efforts tremendously support that priority.” Registered sex offenders who are currently on State probation or parole are prohibited from decorating their homes for Halloween, wearing costumes, or passing out candy. Franklin Police Officers will be out in force, keeping a watchful eye on those homes this Halloween to help ensure compliance with restrictions.

Information about registered sex offenders can be found on the TBI’s website:http://1.usa.gov/Q8CfmP

No comments:

Post a Comment