A New Jersey town is discouraging residents from letting their children wear clown costumes this Halloween in light of the creepy crown epidemic sweeping across the country. The police department even warned that people who dress up as clowns could potentially face criminal charges if they're perceived as "suspicious" or "threatening."
The Roselle Park Police Department posted a notice on its Facebook page that reads:
Roselle Park Police request parents refrain from allowing their teenage children to wear clown costumes for Halloween parties or trick-or-treating.
Residents may be extra sensitive to "evil or creepy" clown attacks leading up to Halloween. We are issuing this warning of possible exposure to criminal prosecution and civil liability for any suspicious or threatening clown behavior on social networks or in public, into any business or a school after a spike of incidents across the country.
We are warning all residents and visitors to our community, regardless of age, from dressing up as clowns leading up to Halloween to avoid spreading panic and inconvenience to those wishing to enjoy Halloween celebrations throughout the borough.
The departments adds:
Carrying anything that is perceived to be a weapon in public, into businesses or in and around schools exposes you to criminal charges and/or potential danger if it is confused for a real weapon.
Lets work together as a responsible community to ensure this Halloween is a safe, enjoyable and Happy Halloween for all ages.
The Roselle Park Police Department’s message includes a photo indicating no clowns allowed:
Two New Jersey teenagers have recently been charged in relation to making “clowning” “threats.”
The Roselle Park Police Department’s warning comes after the New Haven Public School District decided to ban students from wearing clown costumes along with other “symbols of terror.”