NewsMySuncoast / WWSB (ABC Sarasota)October 29, 2026Sarasota County
Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrests 30 registered sex offenders during compliance checks
Photo: MySuncoast / WWSB (ABC Sarasota)
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrested 30 registered sex offenders during Operation Scarecrow compliance checks ahead of Halloween, following visits to 1,202 individuals in unincorporated Hillsborough County. Arrested individuals faced allegations including probation violations, failure to report internet identifiers or vehicles, and possession of altered identification cards.
Read the full story at MySuncoast / WWSB (ABC Sarasota)Why It Matters
Law enforcement checked on 1,202 registered sex offenders and jailed 30 individuals for alleged violations of probation and registration requirements ahead of Halloween.
Key Facts
- The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested 30 registered sex offenders during pre-Halloween compliance checks known as Operation Scarecrow.
- Detectives checked on a total of 1,202 registered sex offenders living in unincorporated Hillsborough County.
- The sheriff's office partnered with the Florida Department of Corrections and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
- Individuals on probation or supervision are prohibited from taking part in Halloween activities, including passing out candy, displaying decorations, or leaving porch lights on.
- Reginald Walker, 69, was arrested on Oct. 26 on Johnson Pointe Drive in Plant City for allegations including violation of probation, failure to register phone numbers and internet identifiers, and possession of an altered driver's license.
- Robert Williamson, 60, was arrested the next day on York Street in Brandon for a probation violation related to prohibited programs involving a cell phone app.
- Specific allegations across arrests included failing to register vehicles, failing to update driver's license addresses, and failing to report for registration on time.
Who's Mentioned
OrganizationHillsborough County Sheriff’s Office“Conducted compliance checks and arrests during Operation Scarecrow.”OrganizationFlorida Department of Corrections“Worked with the sheriff's office during checks.”OrganizationWWSB“News organization reporting the story.”PersonRobert Williamson“Man arrested the next day in Brandon for probation violation regarding prohibite”PersonChad Chronister“Sheriff who joined detectives for compliance checks and made public statements.”OrganizationFlorida Department of Law Enforcement“Worked with the sheriff's office during checks.”PersonReginald Walker“Riverview man arrested on Oct. 26 for probation and registration violations.”