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Westport School Superintendent Tells Students: No Need To Fear Clowns

WESTPORT, Conn. — The scary clown phenomenon may be scaring kids across Connecticut, but School Superintendent Colleen Palmer said students in Westport have nothing to fear. 

Westport Superintendent Colleen Palmer

Westport Superintendent Colleen Palmer

Photo Credit: File

Palmer told students and parents in a letter sent home Thursday that she has consulted with Westport police and assure everyone that there are no credible clown threats in town.

"The reports of incidents involving clowns [that may be connected to threatening situations] have spread through social media and various news sources," she said. 

"We have been in contact with the Westport Police Department, which, alongside departments from neighboring towns, continues to monitor and be on alert for any suspicious activity in the community. The WPD has confirmed that there are no current threats to our community from this social media activity or other sources."

Palmer called for students and parents alike to keep their eyes open.  

"As always, I ask that all community members continue to be vigilant in reporting matters that seem suspicious to the school or to the police department," she said. "Information observed in the community, heard in conversations, or read online that could threaten the safety and security of our community should be reported immediately." 

She also urged parents to be aware of children’s online activities, what information they are sharing, and who they are “friending” or “following.” 

"Most importantly, if your child feels uncomfortable in any way as a result of the news reports or social media postings, please contact your child’s school so that we can provide any support that is necessary," Palmer said in closing. 

On Thursday, Stamford police were called to Stillmeadow School after an 8-year-old reported seeing a clown with knives on the grounds. Police determined the child's imagination had taken over. It was just one example of many across the country in which scary clowns were reported. 

The Connecticut State Police warned residents earlier this week that although it is not illegal to wear a clown costume, it is illegal to try to cause fear or panic. 

Earlier in the week, Stamford police had investigated a "clown threat" that was a hoax, School Superintendent Earl Kim told parents. 

A clown sighting was reported on Fairfield University's campus Monday night but was later determined to be a prank, according to the Department of Public Safety.

A clown sighting was also reported on the campus of Western Connecticut State University in Danbury.

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