SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects in connection with using social media to bring people together to do violence in Wichita.
On Wednesday, police received information about a social media post encouraging others to meet at 21st and Arkansas at 7 p.m. and then traveling to other parts of Sedgwick County and engaging in violent behavior, according to Officer Charley Davidson.
The investigation revealed 20-year-old Michael Boston Jr. of Wichita and 19-year-old Rashawn Mayes of Park City were responsible for the post that was shared thousands of times throughout Sedgwick County and surrounding areas, causing fear and panic to citizens and business owners.
On Wednesday evening, officers located Boston and Mayes, and they were arrested without incident on requested charges of incitement to riot, according to Davidson. Online jail records indicate both suspects are no longer in custody.
The arrests of Boston and Mayes Jr. sparked immediate outcry on social media. Wichita City Council member Brandon Johnson posted a supportive video on Facebook, saying the men “were arrested for sharing information that we all saw.”
Police have released no additional details on the investigation.
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SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects in connection with using social media to bring people together to do violence in Wichita.
On Wednesday, police received information about a social media post encouraging others to meet at 21st and Arkansas at 7 p.m. and then traveling to other parts of Sedgwick County and engaging in violent behavior, according to Officer Charley Davidson.
The investigation revealed 20-year-old Michael Boston Jr. of Wichita and 19-year-old Rashawn Mayes of Park City were responsible for the post that was shared thousands of times throughout Sedgwick County and surrounding areas, causing fear and panic to citizens and business owners.
On Wednesday evening, officers located Boston and Mayes, and they were arrested without incident on requested charges of incitement to riot, according to Davidson. Online jail records indicate both suspects are no longer in custody.
“Those who promote and engage in violence will be arrested,” Chief Gordon Ramsay said. “They will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, including federal charges.”