Creepy Clowns in CT: Wilton Police Warns Residents

WILTON, CT — The creepy clown phenomenon continues to scare school children and many others across the nation but the Wilton police says there is nothing to fear. Wilton Police Capt. John Lynch assured residents that the department is on lookout for any real threats as well as prankster clowns.

“Due to rumors, erroneous reports of sightings and social media posts, calls from concerned residents are on the rise," Lynch said. "Patrol Officers are distinctly aware of the situation and are monitoring all public areas, including the schools. The Wilton Police Department takes these incidents seriously and will investigate all reports or sightings and take the appropriate action.”

"What might be a considered a funny prank or a practical joke to some may be a terrifying experience to others," Lynch said.

The Wilton Police Department is asking citizens to monitor, educate and discourage any associated activity. "We ask that you contact the Wilton Police Department should there be actual incident or threat. Anyone who creates a public disturbance will be charged with the appropriate offense, which may include a court appearance and fine,” he said.

A number of vague creepy clown threats have popped up on social media lately across Connecticut. They were followed by several arrests. The trend in Connecticut and elsewhere in the country has some on edge, but many threats have already been ruled not credible by local police departments and officials.

Clown impact carried into Thursday. State Police warned would-be clown pranksters that there could be criminal consequences to their actions. Three teens were arrested by Ansonia Police in connection with social media threats. Arrests were also made inNaugatuck and Beacon Falls.

Related:

• 'Scary Clown' Rumors Send UConn Students into the Cemetery and Streets With Hockey Sticks and Golf Clubs
• Creepy Clown Threats Prompt Police Presence at Wallingford Schools
• Vandal Tags Meriden Car with Clown Graffiti, Vulgar Marking
• Naugatuck Police Investigate Clown Messages
• 2 Teens Arrested for Creepy Clown Posts on Social Media in Naugatuck: UPDATE
• Creepy Clown Rumors Prompt Police Presence at Cheshire, North Haven Schools
• ‘Creepy’ Clown Threat Targets Wallingford Schools, Prompts Police Presence

Written by Wendy Ann Mitchell with additional reporting by Rich Scinto

Image via Flickr Creative Commons, taken by evaxebra