Students Face Charges in Failed TikTok Challenge Inspired by “To Catch a Predator”

Students Face Charges in Failed TikTok Challenge Inspired by “To Catch a Predator”

Multiple students at Assumption University in Massachusetts are now facing serious charges, including kidnapping and conspiracy, after an incident involving a man they reportedly enticed to campus via Tinder for a TikTok challenge. This shocking event has drawn parallels to the notorious “To Catch A Predator” television series, known for exposing individuals who believed they were meeting underage victims.

Since the show’s debut, its concept has inspired various adaptations, including a dangerous new trend on TikTok that has led to a disturbing incident involving the university students.

Charges Arise from Dangerous TikTok Challenge

As highlighted by CBS, five students—Joaquin Smith, Isabella Trudeau, Kevin Carroll, Kelsy Brainard, and Easton Randall—are now facing significant legal consequences due to this ill-conceived prank.

Kelsy Brainard, an 18-year-old student, allegedly initiated contact with the man through Tinder under false pretenses, intending to mimic the TikTok trend of ensnaring perceived predators and confronting them. However, the situation escalated far beyond a simple prank.

Tinder promotional image
Tinder

The man was reportedly drawn to the campus through Tinder.

The twisted scenario took a darker turn when the gentleman, who was in Worcester to attend his grandmother’s funeral, was ambushed by a group of approximately 25 students instead of meeting a potential date. According to police reports, the man was initially restrained but managed to escape amidst punches and even had a car door slammed on him during the altercation.

“Upon reviewing the footage, it became clear that Brainard’s account was false and misleading,” stated the police report. It revealed that the students had conspired to lure the man to campus with the intent to catch him as a sexual predator, a motive lacking any legitimate justification.

Further investigation revealed that the students had coordinated their messaging tactics to entice the victim, exhibiting premeditated planning to execute this dangerous prank.

TikTok logo next to court gavel
Pixabay

A representative for Assumption University condemned the students’ behavior, labeling it “abhorrent” and emphasizing the institution’s stance against violence and misconduct.

Additionally, Kevin Carroll faces charges for assault and battery using a dangerous weapon, while Brainard is also charged with witness intimidation, further complicating the already serious legal ramifications for the involved parties.

All students involved are slated for arraignment in Worcester District Court on January 16, where they will face the consequences of their actions.

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