Student Tasered On Camera
YouTube Hero Coins the Phrase, 'Don't Tase Me Bro!'
This is how YouTube heroes are born! Andrew Meyer, a student at the University of Florida, seemed to be looking for trouble when he asked a friend to video him at a Sen. John Kerry campus forum. After being granted approval to ask a question, but refused to give up the microphone when his questions grew more provocative. A campus officer stepped in who then tasered Meyer. The camera rolled throughout, and the next YouTube star was born. The U of F president called the incident "regretful" and placed the two officers on paid leave. As a University of Florida alum, all I can say is, go Gators!
Trend Themes
1. Youtube Sensation - The rise of viral videos and YouTube stars presents an opportunity for businesses to leverage this trend for marketing and brand promotion.
2. Police Accountability - Increasing incidents of police misconduct captured on camera creates a demand for technology solutions that hold law enforcement accountable.
3. Citizen Journalism - The prevalence of citizen journalism and the power of social media platforms offer opportunities for businesses to develop tools and platforms that enable and support user-generated content creation.
Industry Implications
1. Social Media - The growth of viral videos on platforms like YouTube creates opportunities for companies specializing in video-sharing and social media platforms.
2. Technology/electronics - The need for body cameras and other surveillance technologies equipped with accountability features creates opportunities for companies specializing in developing and manufacturing these technologies.
3. Content Creation - The rise of user-generated content and citizen journalism opens up opportunities for businesses that support, facilitate, and monetize content creation on various platforms.