A TikTok trend is causing a lot of problems for teenagers, with the consequences potentially impacting their college and career futures.
Police departments across the nation are dealing with the effects of a TikTok challenge resulting in the theft of Hyundai and Kia vehicles. Mississippians are facing the same struggle.
The TikTok challenge
In recent months, the hashtag “Kia Boys” began making its way around social media. It referred to thieves who used a set of simple tools to steal Kia and Hyundai vehicles, then post videos of the process online. A security glitch made it easy for the thefts to take place, leaving millions of vehicle owners the victims of car theft across the nation.
While car manufacturers are issuing upgrades to fix the issue, car owners need to remain vigilant. The Jackson Police Department recommends using additional security features to lock the vehicles or the steering wheel.
The problem for teens
If your teenager or young adult gets caught participating in this challenge, you could see criminal charges brought against them. A first-time motor vehicle theft conviction could result in up to 10 years in prison. The prison sentence and fines increase for additional offenses.
Convictions of felony offenses impact the rest of a person’s life. These convictions can restrict a person’s right to vote or make it difficult to pass a background check for a job.
The harsh penalties for motor vehicle theft are to deter teens or adults from committing the crime. While many of the TikTok challenge participants seem to get away with robbery, you do not want to take that kind of chance with your future or that of your teens.
