clowning around |
Cops later shared a compilation of body camera footage with circus sounds added for effect on social media
Officers wrestle with the clown
Officers wrestle with the clown
Neil Fetherstonhaugh
Today at 17:28
A man dressed as a clown was arrested by police officers in Palm Bay, Florida, for allegedly trespassing in an incident that was caught on camera.
Officers with the Palm Bay Police Department arrived on the scene where a man dressed in a clown suit was refusing to leave a shopping plaza.
Cops later shared a compilation of body camera footage with circus sounds added for effect on social media.
"What do you call someone who returns to a shopping plaza after (having) trespassed? … A clown," the police department posted on Facebook.
In the footage the suspect, identified as 40-year-old Christopher Marlowe, can be seen in a bright yellow suit with white and red stripped sleeves.
As officers approach Marlowe begins to pull away, resisting arrest, according to a police affidavit and body camera video.
Police are forced to take him down, with one officer remarking: “You look like a clown,” as Marlowe is placed in a patrol car.
"I am a clown," Marlowe retorts.
Authorities say Marlowe had already been banned from the plaza prior to the incident, as officers had been called to the location before.
Investigators said Marlowe was initially trespassed for walking around the property, "yelling to himself," and allegedly loitering, "serving no purpose on the property," the affidavit stated.
Police described him as "aggressive" and reported that he cursed at officers, saying, "I’m not trespassed, and I’m gonna come back," and "F**k y’all."
Investigators also searched a bag that the man had with him, revealing a pack of cigarettes, box full of clown noses, and more clown clothing.
Marlowe was booked into the Brevard County jail on a charge of trespass after warning, according to the affidavit.
The police department added on social media, "Everyone has the right to feel safe in public spaces. We’re committed to addressing those who repeatedly refuse to respect that."