Before descending on the city to collect a feast of treats Thursday, police in Newport News and Hampton provided some trick-or-treating rules and safety tips ahead of the Halloween festivities.
Hampton
Hours for trick-or-treating in the City of Hampton are from sunset, or about 6 p.m., to 8 p.m.
Although Sgt. Reggie Williams, a spokesman for Hampton Police, said officers won’t be out actively looking for violators, an ordinance in the city code states those caught trick-or-treating after 8 p.m. or are partaking at ages older than 12 years old could face a class 4 misdemeanor charge — a fine of up to $250.
“But if we get complaints, we’ll address the law accordingly,” he said.
Newport News
Kim Lee, spokeswoman for the city of Newport News, wrote in an email trick-or-treaters can go from dusk until 8 p.m. on Halloween but only for children 12 years and younger,
“Nothing herein shall be construed as prohibiting any parent, guardian or other responsible person having lawfully in his custody a child twelve (12) years old or younger, from accompanying such child who is playing “trick or treat” for the purpose of caring for, looking after or protecting such child. However, no accompanying parent or guardian shall wear a mask of any type.”
It’s unclear how police officers enforce this city ordinance.
The Newport News Police Department did not respond to multiple requests for comment.
Safety Tips
- Plan your route in advance and choose routes with sidewalks, streetlights, or on residential streets.
- Inspect all candy before it’s consumed
- Carry a flashlight
- Stay in groups
- Never enter a stranger’s home
