THOMASVILLE, Ga. — Clowns usually are associated with fun occasions, but Thomasville police issued a warning about clowns who might be up to no good.

“There have been concerns in the community about individuals dressing up as clowns and committing crimes,” Maj. Eric Hampton, Thomasville Police Department (TPD) public information officer, said.

TPD has received many calls sightings of clowns. However, when police arrive, the clowns are gone.

Hampton said that with the exception of a sanctioned event or holiday, it is illegal for someone to wear any mask to conceal their identity.

“Those in violation of this law will be charged with a misdemeanor,” Hampton said.

Anyone seeing someone wearing a clown costume is asked to call 226-2101 immediately to report the sighting.

“We have not had criminal activity reported by anyone fitting this description, but we are depending on citizens to report suspicious activity,” Hampton said.

Noting Halloween activities, the officer said police recommend clown costumes should not be worn while committing pranks.

A Thomas County Sheriff’s Office investigator was shopping at Walmart Monday night when someone told him clowns had been in the store parking lot earlier.

“I don’t know of any criminal activity,” Lt. Tim Watkins, sheriff’s office chief investigator.

Reports have been been nationwide about people dressed as clowns.