With reports coming from over 20 different states around the country, including the neighboring state of Wisconsin, the clown scare is no joke.

According to an Oct. 7 story, Serious or just a sick joke? on usatoday.com, several incidents of clown threats all over the country have been reported to the police; however, some are more serious than others.

Many reports have been false and/or fake. Because of the attention this event is receiving, many people have pretended to be clowns and have threatened different areas around the country particularly via social media sites. The police’s attempts to catch those making these threats have been successful, but they haven’t been able to put a stop to them.

Many students have varying opinions about the situation.

Jackie Ganshirt, ‘17, says, “It’s stupid. What’s the point of people dressing up as clowns and scaring other people?”

Ganshirt thinks the clown craze is, “nothing to be worried about. It’s just people being dumb,” said Ganshirt.

On the other hand, Vanessa Wareham, ‘19, says, “This is definitely something to be afraid of. There are some scary people out there.”

Of all 20 states, seven have had arrests. Many threats have been from unidentifiable men or young children. In fact, in Virginia, anyone over the age of 16 is prohibited from wearing a mask or anything to conceal one’s identity. One to five years of incarceration and a fine of $2,500 could potentially be implemented.

Communities all over are advising everyone to not be alone and to not be out past a certain time to avoid these clowns.

Officials are still trying to determine future action, but have faith that this phenomenon won’t last, nor cause extreme harm.