Kai Cenat Explains His Side Of Viral NYC Giveaway Riot, Disavows Violence Of The Day

One week after Kai Cenat inadvertently caused a riot with an unsanctioned giveaway in New York City's Union Square Park, the embattled Twitch streamer finally provided his side of the story during a stream last night.

Cenat explained that he had no intention of inciting a violet outburst and simply wanted to hold a neat event for his community. However, he joined his YouTube group AMP (Any Means Possible) and some of his critics in acknowledging that he seriously underestimated the impact his promise of "free PS5s" and other valuable prizes would have on his fanbase.

"Being from New York, it has been my dream to want to give back to the community that made me who I am," he said. "But after Friday, I’ve come to realize the amount of power and influence that I have on people."

Cenat strongly disavowed the violence from the August 5th riot last Friday that resulted in several injuries, destruction of property and 65 arrests, including his own. Cenat was charged with two counts of inciting a riot by the NYPD that day.

"I am beyond disappointed in anybody who became disruptive that day," he added. "None of that is cool … I had good intentions for this whole thing. I don’t condone any of the things that went on that day."

Yesterday's statement marked Cenat's first public appearance and commentary on last week's riot, and some online felt it may have been too little too late. They also suggested that fans were inspired by Cenat's own irresponsible and juvenile behavior on stream, which has gotten him in trouble before.

Cenat asked that journalists and media outlets direct their questions to him and not his family, suggesting his mother has been contacted for comment about the riot.

He said his first court date is August 16th and will be the first of multiple, and it will impact his streaming schedule.