Kai Cenat, a Social Media Influencer, Charged with Inciting Riot as Thousands Create Chaos in NYC

Social media influencer Kai Cenat is facing charges of inciting a riot and promoting an unlawful gathering in New York City, following a chaotic event that drew thousands of his followers, many of them teenagers, with the promise of giving away electronics, including a new PlayStation. The event, which took place in Union Square, resulted in dozens of arrests and incidents of violence.

Cenat was released from police custody on Saturday after being issued a desk appearance ticket, requiring him to appear in court to answer the charges. The mayhem caused by the event has raised concerns about the influence social media influencers have on their followers.

During a press briefing on an unrelated crime, Mayor Eric Adams emphasized the need for children to be raised outside the realm of social media. The police reported that 65 people, including 30 juveniles, were arrested, and several individuals were injured, with some requiring medical attention.

Despite the chaos, Mayor Adams praised the police for their ability to bring the situation under control without any loss of life or significant property damage. However, he stressed the need for young people to refrain from engaging in such dangerous activities that could harm themselves and others.

Cenat, a 21-year-old video creator, has a massive following on Twitch, with 6.5 million followers, and YouTube, with 4 million subscribers. He regularly livestreams on Twitch and posts vlogs on YouTube covering various topics, ranging from pranks to travel experiences. Cenat’s popularity has earned him multiple awards, including the Streamer of the Year at the Streamy Awards.

During the event, Cenat livestreamed from a vehicle, displaying gift cards he planned to give away. As the crowd grew and the police presence intensified, he urged everyone to stay safe and wait until the situation calmed down. Eventually, Cenat and his entourage made their way through the crowd and into the park, where he was surrounded by enthusiastic supporters.

Chief Jeffrey Maddrey of the New York Police Department revealed that Cenat was removed from the park for his safety and was in contact with the police. Aerial footage captured the chaotic scene, with a large crowd running through the streets, scaling structures, and disrupting traffic. Teenagers were seen vandalizing cars, throwing objects, and climbing on vehicles.

One attendee, Skylark Jones, described the scene as resembling a movie, with police officers charging at people. Jones and his friend had come to the event hoping to win one of the giveaways, but the situation quickly escalated even before Cenat arrived.

Chief Maddrey expressed his concern over the level of danger presented by the event and the injuries sustained by many individuals, including three police officers. While he acknowledged that young people have the right to gather and have fun, he emphasized the need for such events to be safe and not pose a threat to public safety.

The incident involving Kai Cenat has sparked a conversation about the responsibility of social media influencers and the potential consequences of their actions. The investigation into the event is ongoing, and Cenat will have to face the charges in court.

This news report highlights the events surrounding the controversial gathering organized by social media influencer Kai Cenat and emphasizes the need for responsible behavior in the online world.

Original Story at www.usnews.com – 2023-08-05 17:48:52