If you have been on social media within the past few weeks you have probably seen the growing number of individuals capturing photos, videos, or tweeting about seeing clowns walk the streets of their hometowns and college campuses. These clowns may be seen holding weapons such as knives, or simply only walking by themselves then charging towards people in their cars. So many questions are running through our minds as the media pours out the news. Is this a sick joke? Are filmmakers trying to promote the new "It" movie coming out? Is there a secret clown cult? Are groups of friends simply dressing up and acting only to be famous on the Internet for a day? Are people just really into Halloween this year?
No one truly knows, but there is one thing that I do know. This has got to stop. These clowns are showing up on college campuses across the nation, and students are feeling unsafe at their very own school. Sure, we can say its just a silly college kid who had a few beers trying to freak people out, but we should never assume. We never truly know who is behind a mask and what their intentions are.
Or we can all be like Penn State and go on a massive hunt to destroy all these clowns dressed as clowns. (excuse the language in this video)
According to Time, the whole clown scenario started in South Carolina with creepy individuals dressing up and trying to lure kids into the woods. Another scary thing to realize is that police are actually receiving calls about clown sightings everywhere. According to the Oakland Press, Chief Doreen Olko of the Auburn Hills Police Department stated, “It isn’t against the law to walk around in a clown outfit. Nonetheless, if anyone, including clowns, trespasses or harasses people or commits another crime like an assault–they can be arrested.” Pretty much our country has turned into a real life haunted house. These 'clowns' can walk around as long as they follow the law.
I also cannot help but make another terrifying connection.
It is important this Halloween that everyone is very aware and stays safe. Travel in pairs or more, and trust no clown.
