"On the evening of 10/03/16, Moscow Police and U of I Campus Security responded to reports of people dressed up as clowns both on and off campus. None of the sightings involved acts of violence and police were unable to locate or identify any of the people in costume.

"While there is no law against dressing up as a clown, the Moscow Police would like to remind everyone that other related criminal activity such as trespassing, assault and battery, second degree stalking and inj...ury to or enticing a child will be investigated and charged accordingly. The Moscow Police believes people engaging in this type of activity are doing it for attention and to cause fear. The public is encouraged to call police immediately if they see someone dressed as a clown acting out in a threatening manner. The Police Department can be reached at 208-882-COPS(2677)."