Westchester Reporter

For the 18th consecutive year, the Westchester County Department of Probation will hold an anti-sexual abuse victim impact program aimed at keeping sex offenders off the streets during Halloween. This initiative requires over 100 registered and non-registered sex offenders on probation in Westchester County to attend an educational session at the Westchester County Courthouse on October 31 from 5:30 to 10 p.m.

Westchester County Executive George Latimer emphasized, “Our top priority in Westchester County will always be our children, and we are doing everything we can to ensure they are safe when they go trick-or-treating on Halloween night. Parents should remind their kids to travel in groups and come home at a reasonable hour, but they shouldn’t have to worry about the potential dangers of sex offenders. This program guarantees that all local sex offenders will be accounted for in Westchester County.”

During the program, attendees will hear firsthand accounts from victims about the long-term effects of sexual abuse. Curtis St. John, former President and Media Coordinator of MaleSurvivor.org, will share his personal story and recovery journey. Karen D. Carroll, a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner with WestCOP/Victims Assistance Services, will also share her experiences as a survivor.

Additionally, Josefa Romero from WJCS Crime Victims Advocacy Support Services Program and Kristian Garcia from WestCOP/Victims Assistance Services will lead sessions for Spanish-speaking offenders. Licia Sandberg from SAAVE and Susan Carroll from PACE Women’s Justice Center will provide insights into legal impacts and advocacy work related to survivors.

Probation officers will monitor compliance by actively seeking out any offenders who fail to attend. To maintain community safety after the event, public transportation is prohibited for participants; probation officers will arrange transportation home if necessary.

This initiative is not open to media coverage. For further details about the Westchester County Department of Probation's efforts or other programs, interested parties can visit their website.