WHITMAN — Chief Timothy Hanlon and the Whitman Police Department wish to warn community members of the “Orbeez Challenge,” a troubling viral TikTok trend that can result in serious consequences, including injury and property damage.
Within the past week, there have been two reported incidents of individuals struck by pellets in Whitman, which police believe are related to the recent “Orbeez Challenge,” where small circular water gel pellets are shot from air-powered pellet guns at people or property. At this time, the incidents remain under investigation and no charges have been filed.
Several other incidents of the “challenge” have been reported throughout the country in recent weeks, with some leading to people being injured. There have also been several arrests made as a result of these incidents.
Chief Hanlon would like residents to know that they are taking these incidents seriously and anyone caught may be arrested or face criminal charges.
Additionally, Whitman Police encourage parents to discuss this trend, and similar ones, with their children in order to make them aware of the consequences and discourage participation.
“Achieving 15 minutes of fame on social media for an act that can hurt others and have severe consequences is not worth it,” Chief Hanlon said. “Parents, please speak to your children about these trends and their negative repercussions. Talking to children about proper social media use and behavior is an impactful way to build understanding and reinforce the long term consequences of violating those norms.”
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