- Luke Johnston
Clowns and Batman: Feature
Some people love clowns, others hate them. Some even have a phobia of them otherwise known as coulrophobia. A new clown craze has hit the streets of Cumbria with both children and adults being threatened in a number of ways.
A number of incidents have been reported to the police including a call out for Hensingham Square, Whitehaven on 11th October. PCSO’s and plain clothes officers where deployed in the area during which a Police Van was “egged” by youths.
Two people where also seen running down a Whitehaven High Street dressed as clowns but no threats where made.
Superintendent Mark Pannone of Cumbria Police said: “We appreciate that the majority of the public understand the impact and harm that this “clown craze” is causing, particularly to children.
“We are hoping that this craze will pass this week and we’d urge the small minority of people still taking part to stop. Dressing up as a clown and deliberately trying to scare and intimidate others is causing a lot of distress to people and we will not tolerate it - this “prank” could lead to you being arrested for a public order offence, possession of an offensive weapon or even an assault.”
During the 24 hours from 7am Tuesday 11th October to 7am, Wednesday 12th October Cumbria Police had received 23 reported incidents. In three incidents offenders have been identified and action has been taken.
At approximately 5:20pm, 12th October 2016, it was reported that a 13 year old girl had received threatening messages via “Instagram” from someone posing as a clown who threatened to cut her throat and rape her. A 13 year old boy was identified as the offender and he was arrested for Malicious Communications.
Also at approximately 5:20pm, 12th October, it was reported that a man was wearing a white mask and was following a group of children aged 10-13 years old. A 23 year old man was interviewed and has been reported for a section 5 public order offence.
At 7:15pm on 12th October it was reported that a clown jumped out of a car and scared a female pedestrian. A suspect was identified and crime was submitted for a public order offence.
Meanwhile a Cumbrian business has gone viral being featured in National Papers such as The Independent and on online website 'The LAD Bible' after visiting scared children who have been affected by the craze. Cumbrian Superheroes have been out and about dressed up as Batman. Posting a video the business said "Please reassure you're kids there safe , they only know what you tell them."
Heres Batmans Message for the Clowns:
Even featuring on This Morning where Holly Willoughby got the giggles when talking to Batman and a Clown.
Then as if this wasn't mad enough a chilling message was released to Batman...
It really has been a crazy week. However Police Sources have suggested that the craze will now die down as we approach the weekend...
Copyright (C)
Article (C) Cumbria Media C/O VISIT WHITEHAVEN MEDIA
Batman Video (C) Cumbrian Superheroes
This Morning Video (C) ITV
Joker Video (C) Joe Kerr
Top Image (C) Cumbria Superheroes
Middle Image (C) The Telegraph
Right Image (C) Geek and Sundry
Elements with thanks from Cumbria Police