(Thumbnail image from mlive.com)

Halloween is usually all about the creepy, but this year one costume has raised all sorts of controversy, especially around the issue of illegal immigration.

“This is what it looks like. Called ‘The Illegal Alien’ it’s a mask of a space alien, an orange prison style jumpsuit with the words ‘Illegal Alien’ and a large, fake green card.” (WTNH)

For more on the debated duds we bring you perspectives from The Rhode Show, CNN, KTVT and WTNH.

The Rhode Show’s Shawn Tempesta says the costume is just a funny play on words and doesn’t have any malicious connotation.

“I think this is about the literal translation. You’re illegal, ok so you’re in the jumpsuit, and you’re an alien, you’re from outer space.’
‘So to you a jumbo shrimp costume would be funny as well?’
‘Jumbo shrimp exactly, it would be funny as well. It’s about the literal translation and that’s why it’s supposed to be funny.”

But others aren’t laughing and see connotation in the costume reaching beyond words. In a special to CNN, RedBrownandBlue.com’s Rudy Ruiz shares his anger over the costume.
 
”We don't have to don a costume that strips 12 million people of their dignity just for a few cheap laughs. Which America do we hope to see in the mirror when the Halloween party's over?”

In response to the distaste for the costume, many retailers have removed the alien costume from their shelves but a viewer of a Dallas CBS affiliate made a point about controversial costumes in general.

“Target may have pulled the costume, but the retailer is still offering a naughty nun outfit on its Web site. That prompted one viewer to write:
‘Sexy nun costumes or dressing up as Jesus is ok, but an illegal alien isn’t?”

Finally, Connecticut ABC affiliate says the controversy seems to have served the alien costume well, despite its absence from retail shelves.

“Now it’s selling on eBay, a whole page full. The retail price is about $28. On eBay, the asking price is 100, the controversy driving up its value nearly 4 times over.”

So what do you think? Is this costume offensive or just a Halloween joke?