Massachusetts Police Not Clowning Around After Recent Threats

DARTMOUTH, MA — A Massachusetts police department isn't clowning around when it comes to the recent string of clown threats sweeping the country. Dartmouth police on Tuesday released a lighthearted public service announcement on YouTube capped with a serious warning.

One of the most recent clown incidents happened in Auburn last week when police said a parent in a clown mask followed a school bus. The parent was charged with disturbing the peace and disorderly conduct.

"The Dartmouth Police Department is taking a zero tolerance stance on the recent crown craze plaguing the nation," Det. Kyle Costa said in a statement. "If you want to act like a clown, we have no problem treating you like one.

"Disturbing one's peace, trespassing, and enticing of a child are arrestable offenses ... Anyone who partakes in this senseless and potentially dangerous behavior may be subject to arrest."

Related

• Parent Who Wore Clown Mask And Followed School Bus Will Be Charged, Say Police
• Clown Threat at Plymouth South High School: Police
• From Laughing to Screaming: The History of Clowns and Terror

Photo credit: Dartmouth police