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A 14-year-old student from Grand Junction High School was arrested Monday for allegedly joining a viral 'Cat in the Hat' social media trend.

A 14-year-old student from Grand Junction High School was arrested Monday on charges of harassment and interference with staff, faculty or students of educational institutions. The arrest followed a social media post by the student that implied someone dressed as the 'Cat in the Hat' character would appear outside a local middle school and residential homes.

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Authorities in Colorado and other states have warned the public about the viral trend, which features photos and videos of the iconic Dr. Seuss character lurking in public spaces. While the Grand Junction Police Department determined there was no credible threat, they increased law enforcement presence at West Middle School and Grand Junction High School as a precaution. The trend is similar to a 2016 social media fad where people dressed as clowns in public spaces to scare bystanders. During that time, two students in Greeley, Colorado, were arrested for posting claims that killer clowns would attack schools. Prosecutors at that time stated that anyone involved in the trend could face criminal charges. School districts in Texas, Michigan, and Oklahoma have also responded to the trend, with some placing schools under precautionary lockdowns or increasing police patrols.

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