Six college students in Massachusetts are accused of luring an active duty service member to their campus under false pretenses, where he was chased and assaulted by a group of over two dozen people. The plot was reportedly inspired by the television show “To Catch a Predator” and a trending TikTok challenge. Similar incidents in Illinois sparked concerns about a viral social media trend encouraging dangerous behavior. The victim, who was accused by the students of being a predator, was not seeking sex with a minor and was ensnared by a group of six students in a conspiracy involving mistreatment, false imprisonment, and physical assault. Charges filed against the students include kidnapping, conspiracy, intimidation, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. The university where the incident occurred condemned the students’ actions and worked with authorities to pursue criminal charges. The victim’s father commended law enforcement for their diligence in handling the case. The victim, an active-duty military service member, was falsely accused by the students who orchestrated the attack. The incident was reported to campus officials after the victim was harassed and assaulted by the group of students. Video evidence confirmed the victim’s account of the events, which led to criminal charges against the students involved. The incident highlights the dangers of viral social media trends and the consequences of engaging in harmful behavior.
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