McLean County Times

A recent visit to Normal by a group of Toronto-based YouTubers may lead to serious consequences for Illinois State University students as authorities seek to punish those who attended a related gathering en masse without adhering to mask-wearing rules.

The Normal Police Department investigated the gathering, which featured the Canadian NELK Boys, prank-related YouTubers from Canada, according to The Pantagraph. University officials cooperated with the investigation.

Police had to break up a number of large, flash mob-style gatherings related to the NELK Boys during their visit. 

"We're going to continue to work with landlords and the university but the students have to be accountable," Normal Police Chief Rick Bleichner said. "Just because some internet sensation shows up, it doesn't mean all caution should be thrown to the wind. The students need to be accountable for their actions."

Normal Mayor Chris Koos said that they also intend to take action against the NELK Boys in addition to cracking down on those associated with the university who invited them to town.

"I think they should answer for their actions, whether that's a fine or a university code of conduct action," he said.

University President Larry Dietz characterized those involved in the incidents as a minority of the student body, stating that the majority of students are following the rules. He said that they are working to identify everyone present at the gatherings and that code of conduct violations will be issued.

“The mayor and I are talking about other potential sanctions that the town of Normal might issue as well,” he said. Potential consequences outlined by Dietz include suspensions.