Influencer Acquitted of Stabbing Sentenced to 12 Years for Attempted Kidnapping

A TikTok influencer who previously beat a murder charge is now heading to prison. Zachary Latham, 24, was sentenced to 12 years in prison and 15 years of probation for attempted kidnapping and other charges. The charges stem from an August 2023 incident where he allegedly strangled a woman he was dating and held her against her will.

This case is getting attention because of Latham’s history. In 2020, he was acquitted of fatally stabbing his neighbor, William Durham Sr., claiming self defense. He had built a small social media following around the case, posting videos and gaining about 40,000 followers. But prosecutors in the new case say he used threats to try and silence his victim, messaging her that“ALL of our dirty laundry will be on TV”to pressure her into dropping charges. The victim told authorities she was in absolute fear she was going to die.

The story is a jarring example of how internet fame and serious crime can collide. It raises questions about whether the justice system is tough enough on repeat offenders and how much we really know about the influencers we follow. What do you think, does social media fame ever help someone avoid real consequences? Share your thoughts in the comments.