The County Sheriff is offering the following information to assist the residents of Burlington County and surrounding areas in dealing with these situations.
Burlington County Sheriff Jean Stanfield issued a warning recently regarding the recent nationwide “creepy clown” activity.
“Recently, people in clown costumes committing illegal or suspicious acts have been reported throughout the country,” Stanfield said. “Here in Burlington County schools and police departments have also begun to receive both credible as well as false reports of similar behavior.”
The Burlington Township School District remained open throughout the week despite receiving “creepy clown” threats late Monday, Oct. 3.
“These ‘creepy clown’ reports have caused alarm in communities nationwide and have been frustrating for first responders, as many of the reports have proven to be hoaxes,” Stanfield said. “As a reminder from the Sheriff’s Office, anyone who makes a false claim will be held responsible. While some may view this as a prank, it is a serious offense that wastes the time and valuable resources of our police departments.”
“When you spread information that is known to be false and causes public alarm, it is a crime.” Stanfield said. “What is particularly troubling about this growing trend is that it has become a means for cyber-bullying. I ask of all our students to remember that schools are a place where everyone should feel safe and bullying at school or from home over your computer will not be tolerated.”
The following information is offered to assist the residents of Burlington County and surrounding areas in dealing with these situations:
• At this time there is no reason for panic or alarm as a result of these reports. Some of the incidents reported have been legitimate; however the majority of reported “creepy clown” incidents have turned out to be pranks.
• For those who something suspicious, say something. Report any suspicious activity to a local police department.
• Much of the alarm surrounding the “creepy clowns” has been fueled by the internet, especially social media. The Sheriff asks the public to remember that not everything on social media is accurate and exercise restraint when sharing or perpetuating information that may be troubling or potentially illegal.
• There appear to be two aspects to this phenomenon — those who actually dress in clown costumes to commit suspicious/illegal acts, and those who are reporting clown sightings as pranks to try and cause alarm.
• For those confronted with a “creepy clown” or any suspicious person, do not take matters into one’s own hands. Flee if possible and attempt to contact law enforcement as soon as possible.
“We are aware of the threats that have been made and are taking the proper precautions to ensure Burlington County residents are as safe as possible. The safety and security of Burlington County residents is our top priority, and we take any threat against them seriously,” Stanfield said.
