Clowns are disturbing enough as is, and I wouldn't fault anyone for having a fear of clowns. It's completely rational. Studies have shown that people in general don't trust those who appear to be hiding behind makeup, etc. In my opinion, mimes are even worse, because they don't verbally communicate. Anyways, people dressed as clowns have been spotted trying to lure children into wooded areas in states ranging from Pennsylvania and South Carolina to Tennessee. Local police in these areas have issued warnings for citizens to be on the lookout, for fear they are child abusers in disguise and some have chased children and teens. I am looking forward to the first arrest of a criminal clown and seeing them brought to justice.