Ithaca College

Earlier this week, Ithaca College became the latest institution to respond to a reported “clown sighting,” when a caller notified the Office of Public Safety of a social media posting regarding a clown allegedly being seen near the Athletics & Events Center. Officers checked the area and did not find anything suspicious.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind the campus community that the Office of Public Safety takes all reports of suspicious persons or activities very seriously. At the same time, however, we ask the community not to be part of the hysteria surrounding the clown sighting phenomenon that seems to be sweeping the country.

Wearing a costume—clown or otherwise—is neither illegal nor a violation of Ithaca College policies. As we approach Halloween, we can expect to see more people around campus in costumes.

If you see someone on campus behaving suspiciously or in a threatening manner, go to a safe place and immediately call Public Safety at 274-3333 to report the description, location, and circumstances. Public Safety will respond to all such calls.

We ask that you not share social media postings about clown sightings, as those are often incorrect or even hoaxes. It is important for Public Safety to have accurate, firsthand information in order to take appropriate action. Making a false report is not only a violation of the law and college policies, it also makes it more difficult for Public Safety to respond to real threats and emergencies.

For your own safety and that of others, please do not take part in pranks involving clown costumes or in spreading unsubstantiated reports of clown sightings, which can make all campus community members unnecessarily anxious and concerned.

You can find tips and practices for maintaining your personal safety on or off campus on the Public Safety website.