Three additional teenagers have been charged after allegedly entering an abandoned IBM facility in Somers, according to New York State Police.
Troopers said the three 18-year-old men, all from Schenectady, were arrested around 12:45 a.m. Sunday, May 10, while on the property.
The teens were taken to the State Police barracks in Somers for processing.
Charges Filed
Each teen was charged with third-degree criminal trespass, a misdemeanor, and trespass, a violation, police said.
They are scheduled to appear in Somers Town Court at a later date.
Social Media Trend Linked to Break-Ins
State police said more than 30 people have been arrested since March for attempting to enter the abandoned facility.
Investigators said many of the incidents are tied to “urban exploring,” a social media trend in which people enter abandoned buildings to film videos for platforms such as TikTok. Some individuals have also allegedly attempted to steal property from the site.
Police Warn About Safety Risks
“State Police are aware of a growing trend on social media platforms, including TikTok, in which individuals post videos of themselves entering these properties,” state police said in a March 31 statement.
“This activity is not only illegal but also poses significant safety risks.”
Police warned that abandoned buildings may contain structural hazards, exposed wiring, open shafts and hazardous materials that could lead to serious injury or death.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Three more teens arrested at abandoned IBM site tied to TikTok trend
Reporting by Alexandra Rivera, New York Connect Team / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
