A group of teenagers is reportedly terrorizing homeless individuals in Sacramento County, with disturbing videos of the alleged assaults circulating widely online. The incidents, which appear to be filmed and shared for social media engagement, have drawn widespread criticism.
Multiple video clips depict two to three young men, often with their identities concealed by hoodies, approaching their targets before throwing objects, including water bottles, and in some cases, physically assaulting them. The perpetrators then quickly flee the scene.
One victim, Chip Stockton, told CBS News that he was kicked by members of the group while he was outside a Safeway store. He stated that the same group also targeted him at another location. Stockton described the actions as assault and battery.
It remains unclear if all of the individuals targeted by the group were homeless or if they were specifically targeted for appearing to be so. The victims were often observed sitting outdoors, waiting at bus stops, or near vehicles.
Another video shows a group approaching a man near a van. The man appears to reach for a container of water being offered, only for the teenagers to throw the water on him before running away. Angel Melendez, a worker in the vicinity of the Safeway, commented that the group has become a nuisance for local businesses, suggesting their motivation is to gain online attention.
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office has acknowledged awareness of the videos but stated that no victims have filed official reports. Social media users have reacted with anger and condemnation to the videos, with many expressing outrage at the treatment of vulnerable individuals.