Why The Creepy Clown Hoax Is Stupid And Police Are Taking It Seriously

PTBOCanada have heard of local creepy clown sightings on social media platforms such as Snapchat, so we reached out to Peterborough Police to get their take on this stupid hoax that has spread across Canada and North America and only serves to frighten people.

"We are aware of and keeping an eye on the 'creepy clown' hoax that is circulating on social media. While we have had no official reports or sightings made to our Service, there are many rumours circulating in our area," Lauren Gilchrist, Communications Coordinator at Peterborough Police Service, tells PTBOCanada. "We emphasize that these are just rumours."

Clowns are supposed to make kids and adults happy, like this poster...

Happy clown poster via zazzle.ca

Right now, the creepy clown phenomenon is ruining it for the good clowns who bring joy to people's lives.

Peterborough Police say they have a zero tolerance stance on this type of behavior aimed at shocking and disturbing children and the public all in the name of a joke. People need to be aware that their behavior and the intent of their actions while wearing the costume will dictate police response and action.

Police remind the public that, depending on the person’s intent and behavior, criminal charges could apply. These charges could include the following:

-> Disturbing the peace
-> Public mischief
-> Trespassing
-> Enticing/luring a child
-> Uttering threats
-> Criminal harassment
-> Assault
-> Assault with a Weapon
 
"We encourage parents and caregivers to have serious conversations with their children or teens about the impact and consequences of this sort of hoax and the possible criminal consequences," Gilchrist tells PTBOCanada.

If anyone is concerned about their safety at any time or wants to report a suspicious person or activity, police encourage you to call 9-1-1 in an emergency or their non-emergency line at 705-876-1122.

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