A popular YouTuber, Trevor Daniel Jacob, has been sentenced to six months in federal prison for staging a plane crash in California to create a thrilling YouTube video. The incident occurred on November 24, 2021, in the mountainous Los Padres National Forest in Santa Barbara County. Jacob, 30, had already pleaded guilty in June to obstructing the investigation by destroying the debris from the crash.
The video, titled “I Crashed My Airplane,” was posted in December 2021 and showed Jacob’s small plane experiencing engine failure. With a parachute strapped to his back and a selfie stick camera in hand, Jacob jumped out of the plane, capturing the dramatic moment on camera. Additional footage was recorded by cameras mounted on the wing and tail of the aircraft.
After safely landing, Jacob hiked to the crash site and retrieved video footage from the cameras mounted on the plane. It was later revealed that Jacob had a sponsorship deal to promote a company’s product in the video and had no intention of completing the flight. When Jacob informed federal investigators about the crash, he initially agreed to disclose the wreckage’s location but later lied and claimed ignorance.
To further obstruct the investigation, Jacob and a friend flew to the crash site in a helicopter on December 10, 2021, to collect the wreckage. They then transported the parts to another location using a trailer attached to Jacob’s pickup truck. Eventually, the plane’s parts were cut up and discarded in trash bins.
As a result of his actions, Jacob had his pilot license revoked by the Federal Aviation Administration in 2022. The sentencing serves as a warning that dangerous and deceptive stunts for online content can have serious legal consequences.
The case highlights the potential risks and consequences associated with the pursuit of viral fame on social media platforms. While influencers and YouTubers strive to capture attention and gain followers, it is important to prioritize safety and adhere to legal and ethical standards.
In conclusion, Trevor Daniel Jacob’s attempt to stage a plane crash for a YouTube video has resulted in a six-month prison sentence. The incident sheds light on the potential dangers of pursuing sensational content for online fame, emphasizing the need for responsible and lawful behavior in the digital era.
