Winneshiek County Sheriff's Department says "scary clowns" is a serious matter

The Winneshiek County Sheriff's Department says it has had some local reports from people spotting "scary clowns."  
 
The Sheriff's Department says although these are most likely copycat-style pranks, modeled on the recent clown incidents in the national news, "the acts are causing Winneshiek County citizens a great deal of concern and fear."
 
The Sheriff's Department says it is taking this situation very seriously, and these reports will not be considered "a joke."  Individuals caught participating in these acts will be charged and prosecuted.