Detectives arrested a Beach Park man, who is a registered sexual predator, after they witnessed him participating in Halloween trick-or-treating with children on Sunday.
Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Chief Christopher Covelli said Lake County sheriff’s detectives conduct additional patrols to help ensure the safety of children during Halloween trick-or-treating.
“Part of their duties is to confirm that registered sexual predators are following state law by not engaging with trick-or-treaters,” Covelli said.
The sheriff’s office also sends reminders to offenders within its jurisdiction about the requirement.
Detectives on Sunday saw two minors approach the home of Margarito T. Esparza, 71, in the 38200 block of North Sheridan Road in Beach Park.
Esparza is a registered sexual predator with a prior conviction for aggravated criminal sexual abuse.
Detectives saw Esparza open the door and provide candy to the children, Covelli said.
Detectives made contact with Esparza and placed him under arrest.
Prosecutors said he admitted to handing out the candy to the children.
“Convicted child sexual predators know they are strictly prohibited from nearly every activity involving children. Our team works tirelessly to ensure the safety of our most vulnerable, and this is another example of their outstanding dedication,” Lake County Sheriff John D. Idleburg said.
The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office reviewed the case and approved the charge of unlawful participation of a sexual predator during a holiday event involving minors.
Covelli said detectives will continue extra patrols throughout this week’s trick-or-treating in Lake County.
Esparza appeared in First Appearance Court Monday morning. The charge is non-detainable under the state’s cashless bail law.
Prosecutors said Esparza is still on probation for the aggravated criminal sexual abuse case that he was previously convicted of.
Lake County Judge Matthew DeMartini released Esparza with pre-trial release conditions.
“Sir, that is part of the responsibility you have as a registered sex offender, is you don’t get to participate in things like this,” the judge told Esparza during the hearing.
Esparza is scheduled back in court on November 19.