The teen's message was directed at Steinert High School, police said
HAMILTON -- A 15-year-old student has been charged with making a social media post that referenced clowns and was directed at Steinert High School, police said Wednesday.
The teen, who is a student in the school district, was charged with making a false public alarm.
Police did not discuss what the post said, specifically, but added that it, "caused alarm for many parents, students, faculty and staff at educational institutions throughout the Township," according to a statement from police.
The charge comes just a few days after township police and the school district said they were increasing police presence in light of recent social media postings about creepy clown sightings.
Police have said the reports of clown sightings seem to be largely copycat social media posts, which originated as part of a movie promotion.
Reports of clown sightings and similar online threats have increased in recent weeks at areas around the country - with some threats directed at schools, specifically.
On Wednesday, Bensalem, Pa. police announced they had charged a 12-year-old with making similar clown-related threats on an Instagram page. The threats targeted two Pennsylvania schools, police said.
Anna Merriman may be reached at amerriman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @anna_merriman.