Influencer Kai Cenat avoids prosecution after paying $55,000 in restitution related to a chaotic August 2023 giveaway event he promoted in New York City’s Union Square, CNN reports. 

The event drew thousands, leading to injuries, property damage including damaged landscaping, and over 60 arrests as the crowd swelled rapidly from hundreds to thousands in minutes. Cenat, who had 6.5 million Twitch followers at the time, announced a “huge giveaway” of computers, PlayStation 5 consoles, gift cards, and other prizes during a livestream.

The New York Police Department was forced to activate its highest level, ‘Level 4’ disaster response due to the overwhelming crowd. Cenat, in the aftermath, condemned the violent ‘melee’ and ‘destructive’ events, expressing his deep disappointment. 

As part of an agreement with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, he was required to post a public apology on social media. Despite the controversy, Cenat’s follower counts continue to skyrocket, exceeding 5 million on YouTube, 9 million on Instagram, and 10 million on Twitch as of writing.

According to CNN, the District Attorney will dismiss charges against Cenat after his apology remains public for 24 hours per the restitution deal’s terms.