Due to the influx of traffic and visitors for MSU’s home game against the University of Arkansas, the City of Starkville has established trick-or-treating hours set from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Furthermore, the Starkville Police Department will increase its police presence the entire weekend, especially during the set trick-or-tricking time frame.
SPD Sergeant Freddie Bardley said many Arkansas families have indicated on social media they intend to trick-or-treat in Starkville.
“It gets dark earlier now, and we just want the community to be aware and attentive,” said Bardley, the head of the community policing division. “There will be a lot of kids out trick-or-treating this year. We want a presence in the neighborhoods during that time to make sure everything is safe for the kids.”
The trick-or-treating guidelines, which passed unanimously at the Oct. 21 board meeting and only applies to this Halloween, is intended to provide a uniform time for families to turn off their porch lights. Many communities across Mississippi have enacted such board orders to increase public safety.
“The town will be extremely busy this weekend, and we just wanted to create a safe environment for everyone,” said Scott Maynard, Ward 5 Alderman. “If people abide, it will really help clear the streets a little earlier Friday before game weekend activities start taking place. But we just want everyone to use caution, where reflective clothing and enjoy the event.”
If you witness any suspicious activity this Halloween, do not hesitate to contact the Starkville Police Department at (662) 323-4134.