How to Deal With Creepy Clowns in the Hudson Valley

The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office offers assistance to Hudson Valley residents in dealing with the recent "clown" situations. 

Police have been investigating reports of "creepy clowns" over the past few days across the Hudson Valley. There have been reports of a clown holding a rifle on a bridge, and there was even a local middle school that had to deal with a clown-related threat.

These "creepy clown" reports have cause alarm in many communities here in the Hudson Valley and across the country. The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office have offered information to assist in dealing with these clowny situations:

• There is no reason for panic or alarm as a result of these reports. The vast majority of reported “creepy clown” incidents have turned out to be hoaxes and/or pranks
• If someone is acting suspiciously, whether or not they are wearing a clown costume, report it to law enforcement.
• The hysteria has been fueled by the internet – don’t believe everything that you read on social media.
• If you are confronted with a “creepy clown” or other suspicious person, do not take matters into your own hands. Contact law enforcement as soon as possible

The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office deputies are taking these threats very seriously and will pursue every threat made against our community, according to a press release. The sheriff want the Hudson Valley to be aware on how to handle these situations.

Please remember that common sense should prevail in these situations. Any type of suspicious circumstance/person should be reported to 911 or law enforcement immediately.