Tempe’s local businesses have faced more than the usual challenges lately, thanks to disruptions caused by social media influencer Heston James. Reports say James and his group pretended to be employees, entered shops without permission, and filmed pranks despite being asked to leave, according to the Tempe Police Department.
These so-called pranks spanned from March to July and unnerved staff and customers alike at businesses including Pep Boys and Chipotle. An investigation by the Tempe Police Department ultimately connected 21-year-old Heston Cobb to these stunts, identifying him as the ringleader directing others in his group to start 'working' at unsuspected local enterprises. This resulted in multiple charges against Cobb, who was taken into custody at his residence where a search warrant was served.
The operations of businesses were thrown into disarray, with the group gaining entry into areas designated for employees only and disrupting the workflow. Tempe Police Department disclosed that the investigation, which picked up pace following a series of incidents in July, culminated in charges including third-degree burglary, criminal impersonation, disorderly conduct, and criminal trespass against Cobb.
