Stop, thief, or I'll give you cavities

TAMPA -- Gun? Check. Taser? Check. Handcuffs, pepper spray, badge? Check, check check. Candy?

It's the newest law-enforcement tactic for rounding up all those teenage punks -- pose as a stranger and offer them sweets. It's called "Operation Candy Counter Attack," and it kicks off tonight.

"On Halloween night, many older kids are up to more tricks than treats," a Tampa police news release states. "Officers will be armed with candy to break the ice and approach these groups of roaming teens.  This will help reduce potential disturbances."

The candy was donated by Publix. Where the idea originated, we're not so sure.

Kim Wilmath, Times Staff Writer