Tiktok trend causing concern on some school campuses

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA)-- The "Chromebook Challenge" is a viral TikTok trend that may cost parents some money.

Students are sticking objects into the USB ports of their Chromebooks, resulting in the laptops smoking and in some cases catching on fire.

Videos are circulating around social media that show students at Hanks high school participating in the trend. Carlos Ornelas, Captain with El Paso fire Marshals said when objects are inserted into the Chromebooks it disturbs the electricity which causes the overheating.

He said when this happens toxic gases are release making this a fire hazard and a health hazard. Dr. Juan Martinez, the Superintendent of Clint ISD, said there has been 3 incidents at his district, he adds this is not something they take lightly.

"In addition to the disciplinary action, that includes placement in alternative school, possible suspension, if necessary. Depending on the damages the parents will be required to pay the entire cost of the damages," Martinez said

The price could range anywhere from $400 to $1000 as well as damages to any desk and chairs, but the charges students could face are far more serious.

According to Ornelas, anyone over the age of ten could receive criminal charges. One being criminal mischief, that is the destruction of property that doesn't belong to them. If the device catches on fire they may also face arson charges, which is a felony.

"Even if they release it they cause the battery to fail and there is a smoke that occurs because of that, smoke is a product of combustion and that is considered a fire. So in the state of Texas, that is an arson charge and it is an arrestable offense. "

Ornelas adds doing this on school property only intensifies the charge.