Arizona TikTok Star Heston Cobb Arrested for Disrupting Multiple Businesses

Heston Cobb, a 21-year-old TikTok influencer known as "Heston James," was arrested in Tempe, Arizona, for orchestrating a series of disruptive pranks at local businesses where he and his group impersonated employees and trespassed on private property. From March to July, Cobb led his group to enter establishments such as Pep Boys, Hyland Auto Repair, Big Brand Tire & Service, Jiffy Lube, and Chipotle, causing significant disruption by accessing employee-only areas and refusing to leave when asked. Police charged Cobb with third-degree burglary, criminal impersonation, disorderly conduct, and criminal trespass, emphasizing that these acts have crossed from playful pranks into criminal behavior. Business owners, like David Hyland of Hyland Auto Repair, criticized Cobb for monetizing content at the expense of small business operations and called on social media platforms to take responsibility for the content they host. The viral videos, some garnering millions of views, highlighted not only the practical impacts on businesses but also the ethical concerns around influencers pushing boundaries for online fame. Tempe police and community voices stress that creators must understand the legal and social consequences of such stunts, which can lead to serious legal action beyond entertainment.