So-called Juggalos a concern in Utah

Utah authorities say loyal Insane Clown Posse fans, also known as Juggalos and Juggalettes, may be linked to violence in the state.

West Valley City Police Detective John LeFavor said while most loyal Insane Clown Posse fans are not violent in nature, the few that are make top headlines due to their connection to the band and the acts themselves, The Salt Lake Tribune reported Saturday.

Among the so-called Juggalos charged with violent crimes in Utah is Scott Tyler Stapley, 22. Stapley was convicted on first-degree felony attempted murder charges for attacking a 17-year-old boy with a medieval battle ax in 2008.

LeFavor said Utah gang detectives estimate as much as 15 percent of the Juggalos living statewide engage in criminal activity. Police estimate there are thousands of Juggalos currently living in Utah.

Prosecutor Stephen Nelson of the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office told the Tribune that during the last five years, cases involving Juggalos appear to be becoming increasingly violent.

Insane Clown Posse, a hip-hop duo from Detroit, dresses as evil clowns for performances and is known for hardcore songs on albums such as Hell’s Pit and Bang! Pow! Boom!