YouTube Sensation Accused of Abduction

Summary

• Popular YouTuber Corey Pritchett is charged with two counts of aggravated kidnapping and has fled to the Middle East.
• Pritchett posted a video from Dubai, seemingly mocking the charges and his fugitive status.
• His potential return to the US and the ultimate resolution of the case remain unknown.

US-based YouTube content creator Corey Pritchett, known for his family vlogs, challenges, and pranks, is facing serious legal trouble. The creator, whose main channel "CoreySSG" boasts nearly 4 million subscribers and a second channel exceeding 1 million, is accused of aggravated kidnapping. This follows an incident on November 24, 2024, in southwest Houston, where he allegedly kidnapped two women, ages 19 and 20.

According to reports from ABC13, Pritchett met the women at a gym, engaging in various activities before allegedly threatening them at gunpoint, driving recklessly on I-10, and confiscating their phones. He reportedly expressed paranoia about being pursued and even mentioned accusations of arson. After stopping his vehicle, he allegedly allowed the women to escape, leading them to walk for over an hour before finding help.

Pritchett's Flight and Mocking Video

Charged with two counts of aggravated kidnapping on December 26, 2024, Pritchett had already left the country. Authorities confirmed his departure to Doha, Qatar, on December 9th on a one-way ticket, and he is now believed to be in Dubai. From there, he posted a video online, seemingly making light of the warrants for his arrest and his current situation as a fugitive. This contrasts with the serious nature of the allegations and the trauma experienced by the alleged victims. The case also draws parallels to other legal issues within the online content creation community, such as the case of former YouTuber Johnny Somali facing potential charges in South Korea.

The Future of the Case

The future of Pritchett's case remains uncertain. It's unclear whether he will voluntarily return to the US to face the charges. The situation highlights the risks faced by some content creators, recalling the 2023 kidnapping of YouTuber YourFellowArab in Haiti, who was later released after a harrowing ordeal. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can accompany online fame.