Education

Syracuse University Warns Students: Please Do Not Assault Clowns

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Blake Neff Reporter
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Syracuse University is warning students not to assault clowns they come across in the wake of a national hysteria over “creepy clowns” allegedly menacing communities.

Syracuse’s safety department published a two-page set of guidelines Tuesday, after several students called to report “clown sightings” in the area.

The guidelines warn students not to attack any clowns they see, as this is likely to violate the law.

“Since wearing a costume is not a crime, any physical attack or harassment on such person could be a crime,” it says. (RELATED: What’s The Best Gun For Killing Clowns?)

While students are warned not to attack a clown themselves, the guide also tells them to immediately call the police if they witness a clown or a person wearing a clown mask.

“You should stay away from the person, and head in the opposite direction,” it says.

The guide informs students that dressing as a clown in the near future is likely to be a very bad idea. (RELATED: New Haven Bans Clown Costumes In School)

“If you’re thinking that putting on a clown mask and hanging around town might be a funny prank, think again,” it warns. “This type of prank can be very dangerous as people around the country have reacted in a variety of ways to those in clown masks, some even with violence.”

The guide stops short of telling students not to wear a clown costume for Halloween, but it clearly discourages it.

“You should consider your costume carefully and use discretion in your choice, given the current national circumstances regarding clown costumes,” the school says.

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