South River police are investigating reported clown sightings in two towns in Middlesex County.
There have multiple reports of clown sightings in two towns in the county, according to news and social media posts by police.
Police said they are investigating the possible sightings in South River and Spotswood.
File photoSouth River police said on Facebook that at this time, there have been "no confirmed clown sightings" within the borough, adding, however, that they were "aware of the rumors and social media postings referencing clowns in South River."
"We are investigating the circumstances surrounding this situation," the borough's Police Department said on Facebook.
Authorities, however, said they believe the situation is nothing more than a prank, and "do not believe there is any threat to the South River community."
Authorities in Spotswood were also investigating a clown sighting by a resident on Elm Street after a homeowner reported spotting someone dressed as a clown peaking into his home around 1 a.m. on Tuesday, according to a report by MyCentralJersey.com.
The clown did not appear to have a weapon, according to police in the report. Authorities have ramped up patrols around the neighborhood.
South River police said on Facebook that it "would like to warn all teens and young adults to not get involved in this fad of dressing as clowns to cause fear and panic. The risk exists that someone may perceive these actions to be a threat and take justice into their own hands."
Creating a false public alarm, the department added, as well as intentional harassment and disturbing the peace can lead to criminal charges.
"Individuals caught engaging in these violations are subject to such charges and arrest under New Jersey state laws."
To report suspicious activity to the South River Police Department, contact 732-238-1000 for non-emergencies.
Spencer Kent may be reached at skent@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @SpencerMKent. Find the Find NJ.com on Facebook.