Five students at Assumption University in Worcester, Massachusetts, are facing multiple felony charges after allegedly orchestrating a “To Catch a Predator”-style scheme, inspired by a viral TikTok trend. The students—Joaquin Smith, Isabella Trudeau, Kevin Carroll, Kelsy Brainard, and Easton Randall—are all charged with kidnapping and conspiracy, while Carroll faces a charge of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and Brainard is charged with witness intimidation.
The incident, which took place on October 1, 2024, allegedly involved luring a man to campus under the false pretense of a Tinder date. The group allegedly intended to confront the man, accusing him of predatory behavior, in a staged event reminiscent of the popular TV show To Catch a Predator. According to police, the victim, who believed he was meeting an adult woman, was instead surrounded by a crowd of up to 30 people. The group allegedly shouted accusations, physically assaulted him, and prevented him from leaving the scene, leading to accusations of false imprisonment. Surveillance footage captured scenes from the incident. The man described being surrounded by the crowd, grabbed and held, chased to his car and punched in the back of the head before students allegedly slammed the car door on him and kicked the vehicle. Court documents show that Carroll later admitted to slamming the man’s head into the car door. Police were told that the group of students agreed to lure the man to campus and sent a text about “catching a predator” including the word “underage.”
The Charges and Their Penalties
The students face multiple serious charges. One of the most serious is the charge of “false imprisonment” or kidnapping. Under Massachusetts law, kidnapping carries penalties of up to 10 years in state prison or a minimum of 2 years in a house of correction. Aggravated circumstances, such as the use of a weapon or causing bodily harm, can increase the penalty to life imprisonment.
Conspiracy charges depend on the severity of the underlying crime. In this case, conspiracy to commit kidnapping or other felonies could result in up to 20 years in state prison and fines of up to $10,000.
The assault and battery with a dangerous weapon charge faced by Kevin Carroll in the car door assault could result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years, with aggravated cases punishable by up to 15 years.
Witness intimidation, the charge faced by Brainard, can result in up to 10 years in state prison or a fine of $5,000.
These penalties show quickly actions intended as part of a social media-inspired stunt can escalate into serious criminal allegations with lifechanging consequences.
Internet Trends and Criminal Behavior
The alleged crime highlights the dangerous influence of social media trends, particularly those that promote vigilante justice. Inspired by the TikTok craze of luring and exposing supposed sexual predators, the students evidently saw themselves as the bringers of justice, and not the perpetrators of a crime. Police determined that the man they targeted had no intention of meeting a minor, yet the group’s actions led to physical harm, false imprisonment, and significant reputational damage for the victim.
Legal Representation For Defendants Accused of Kidnapping and Other Serious Charges
This case serves as a necessary reminder of how quickly an ill conceived stunt inspired by an internet trend can lead to severe legal repercussions. Facing charges such as kidnapping, conspiracy, and assault can result in life-altering penalties, including long-term imprisonment and permanent criminal records.
Individuals caught up in internet-fueled trends or vigilante schemes need the guidance of a seasoned criminal defense attorney. A skilled lawyer can examine the circumstances of the case, challenge evidence, and work to mitigate the penalties. This is especially critical in cases involving multiple charges and heightened media attention, where public opinion may skew perceptions of guilt.
If you or someone you know is facing charges of this magnitude, you should not attempt to navigate the legal system alone. Contact a member of our experienced Boston kidnapping defense team to find out how we can defend your case. Our team has decades of experience defending serious cases in state and federal courts. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys can provide the strong defense necessary to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome. Please don’t hesitate to contact us without delay at 617 880 6155.
