Tempe, AZ – July 26, 2025
A TikTok influencer’s quest for viral fame has landed him behind bars after a series of pranks crossed the line into criminal territory. Heston Cobb, a 21-year-old content creator known as “Heston James” to his 1.6 million TikTok followers, was arrested by Tempe Police on Wednesday, July 23, for disrupting local businesses with his so-called pranks.
From March to July, Cobb and his crew allegedly entered multiple businesses, including Pep Boys, Hyland Auto Repair, Big Brand Tire & Service, Jiffy Lube, and Chipotle, posing as employees. Dressed in fake uniforms, they filmed themselves “working” in employee-only areas, refusing to leave when confronted, and causing chaos for clout. In one video, Cobb claimed to be “from corporate” at a car repair shop, criticizing portion sizes at a Chipotle, and even shrieking in stores while pretending not to know the source of the noise.
Tempe Police weren’t laughing. Cobb now faces serious charges, including one count of third-degree burglary, two counts of criminal impersonation, five counts of disorderly conduct, and five counts of criminal trespass. Officer Jessica Ellis told AZFamily, “These videos are definitely not pranks. They’re breaking laws. Impersonating employees is a felony charge.” Posts on X estimate Cobb could face up to nine years in prison if convicted.
This isn’t the first time a TikTok prankster has faced legal consequences. Just last December, Charles Smith, aka Wolfie Kahletti, was arrested in Mesa, Arizona, for spraying pesticide on Walmart produce in a now-deleted video, earning him felony charges for introducing poison. Social media platforms have faced criticism for allowing such content to proliferate, with some calling for stricter oversight. David Hyland, owner of Hyland Auto Repair, told AZFamily, “Hopefully this puts pressure on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to look at what people are posting.” Cobb’s arrest has sparked heated discussions online, with X users slamming the trend of reckless pranks. One post read, “It’s just a prank bro! TikTokker charged with FELONY over Johnny Somali-style pranks!”
As the line between humor and harassment blurs, Cobb’s case serves as a stark reminder: chasing clout can come with a hefty price. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with information to contact Tempe Police.
