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Police not clowning around with clown threats

Posted at 10:00 PM, Oct 03, 2016
and last updated 2016-10-04 08:51:32-04

Eastlake Police are taking creepy clowns and their threatening messages seriously. Three schools, Eastlake Middle, Willoughby Middle, and South High, were targeted on social media. 

"My daughter saw it on Instagram. She didn't want to go to bed or come to school today," said Scott Kordos who has two children at Eastlake Middle School.

Eastlake Police Chief Larry Reik said the social media threats were brought to their attention over the weekend. A tip Monday morning led police to Eastlake Middle School. Reik said an 11-year-old and two 12-year-old girls were responsible for the threats.

"They were remorseful," said Reik. He said none of the girls have a police record or have been in trouble with police previously. 

Detectives will consult with prosecutors about possible charges. "The most important thing is to learn from this and understand that this isn't proper," added Reik. He said a Juvenile Diversion Program will be considered. "Them going away to a youth facility wouldn't benefit any of us," explained Reik. 

Reik also encouraged parents to talk to their children about social media.