Area law enforcement giving "clown" reports serious consideration

Area law enforcement authorities report they are aware of the recent "clown" incidents that have reportedly taken place in certain locations throughout the nation and have been reported to a somewhat lesser degree on the local level. Although the local level reports are considered to most likely be copycat prank versions of what has been viewed on the national scene, these acts have resulted in a number of calls and reports from Allamakee County residents expressing concern and fear.

Area law enforcement authorities would like to assure local residents that this situation is being taken very seriously, and encourage everyone to consider the safety and health repercussions of such acts not only on innocent or intended victims but also potential negative reactionary results in response to fear or shock. Authorities remind individuals that those caught participating in these or similar acts will be charged and prosecuted accordingly.

"We have received two calls in the past few days regarding this issue," the Waukon Police Department shared in a released statement. "One of the calls was unfounded (no one located) and the other was confirmed as not clown related at all (no basis for association with clowns). We are taking this matter seriously and want citizens to be vigilant."

Local authorities ask area residents to report any suspicious activity immediately. Furthermore, parents are encouraged to have a discussion with their children to remind them not to talk with, go with, or get into a vehicle with any strangers.