Californians aren't amused by clown scares October 13, 2014 -- Updated 1735 GMT (0135 HKT) Coulrophobia is the term for the fear of clowns. Sightings of "the Wasco Clown" are reportedly part of a project Bakersfield police say they've had multiple clown sightings A teen was arrested for dressing as a clown and chasing others (CNN) -- Don't bother to send in the clowns. A rash of "creepy clown" sightings in California has left some residents unnerved. It all appears to have started with the "Wasco Clown." According to KernGoldenEmpire.com, the clown's appearances -- and subsequent social media postings -- in the San Joaquin Valley city are part of a photography project launched by a husband and wife team who wish to remain anonymous. But copycat clowns have arrived on the scene, including one who was reportedly armed. The Bakersfield Californian said police received a call about someone in a clown suit brandishing a weapon. "We've had multiple (sightings) of these clown sightings all over town," Bakersfield police Lt. Jason Matson told the publication. He was gone by the time we arrived. The Los Angeles Times said Bakersfield police arrested a teen in another incident in which he allegedly dressed as a clown and pursued other teens, scaring them. Coulrophobia is the formal term for the fear of clowns.