A South Jersey sheriff is warning people about "creepy clown" activity and vowing to protect people if necessary.
"Recently, people in clown costumes committing illegal or suspicious acts have been reported throughout the country," said Burlington County Sheriff Jean Stanfield. "Here in Burlington County schools and police departments have also begun to receive both credible as well as false reports of similar behavior."
The threats included one against township schools Monday – the schools remained open.
Stanfield warned people of the frustration first responders are facing over clown hoaxes – the majority reported have been hoaxes – and told people that those making false claims will be held responsible.
"When you spread information that is known to be false and causes public alarm, it is a crime." said Stanfield. "While some may view this as a prank, it is a serious offense that wastes the time and valuable resources of our police departments."
The sheriff wanted to reassure residents that "proper precautions" are being made to "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. [[395916081, C]]
