'Creepy Clowns' Statement Issued By Dutchess County Sheriff

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — The Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office issued a press release Tuesday addressing reports around the country of “creepy clowns,” including some in the last few days in Dutchess County.

The release said “[t]hese ‘creepy clown’ reports have caused alarm in some communities nationwide and have been frustrating for first responders, as many of the reports have been proven to be hoaxes.”

Sheriff Adrian “Butch” Anderson said his office is aware of the threats that have been made and are taking the proper precautions to ensure the county’s residents are safe.

“The safety and security of Dutchess County residents is our top priority,” he said, “and we take any threat against them seriously. We will pursue every threat that is made against our community.”

County Executive Marc Molinaro said that while some consider it a prank, anyone who threatens county residents will be held accountable.

“This is not funny,” he said. “It is a serious offense.”

The Sheriff’s Office offered guidelines to the public in dealing with these situations:

1. 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 vast majority of reported “creepy clown” incidents have turned out to be hoaxes and/or pranks.
2. If someone is acting suspiciously, whether or not they are wearing a clown costume, report it to law enforcement.
3. Much of the hysteria surrounding the “creepy clowns” has been fueled by the internet — don’t believe everything that you read on social media.
4. There appear to be two aspects to this phenomenon: (1) those who actually dress in clown costumes to commit suspicious/illegal acts, and (2) those who are reporting clown sightings as pranks to try and cause alarm. As stated previously it appears as though the first is much less common than the second. Note — those who are caught committing illegal acts or generating false reports as hoaxes will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
5. If you are confronted with a “creepy clown” or other suspicious person, do not take matters into your own hands, flee if you can and contact law enforcement as soon as possible.

The Sheriff’s Office reminded the public that common sense should prevail and that any suspicious circumstance or person should be reported to 911 or law enforcement as soon as possible.

Patch file photo.