Officials say no immediate, credible threat after clown threat posted online

The Howard County Sheriff’s Department says there appears to be no immediate threat to schools after a threat was posted on Facebook.

The threat came from an account named “Aint Clownin Around.” It threatened to kidnap students and kill teachers at high schools.

The post comes after three alleged clown sightings in mid-Missouri and reports across the country of people dressed as clowns trying to lure children into wooded areas.

The Howard County Sheriff’s Office posted on its Facebook page Thursday acknowledging the post.

It says, ” We are working with surrounding agencies and schools to ensure the safety the residents of Howard County. In addition, we ask that anyone who see’s suspicious activity please call into the Howard County Sheriff’s Office.”

The department says t here appears to be no immediate threat, but says it takes all such threats very seriously.

The Cooper County Sheriff’s Office also posted on its Facebook page about the threat.

It says, “The Cooper County Sheriff’s Office wants to make clear that our office has received NO INFORMATION OR INTELLIGENCE that there has been any similar or credible threat directed to any school in Cooper County.”

The Cooper County Sheriff’s Office says it will monitor activity at schools Friday and will keep monitoring the situation.