A social media influencer gained attention this week for a controversial stunt where he distributed machetes and alcohol to homeless individuals in Austin and New Orleans, claiming it was for their benefit.
Keith Castillo, known as “povwolfy” on TikTok, posted a video on Thanksgiving that went viral, garnering over 14 million views on TikTok and Instagram.
In the video, Castillo can be seen handing out machetes to homeless individuals, with a caption that seemed to mock their situation.
The machetes were purchased in bulk for less than $5 each and were distributed alongside bottles of vodka in another video posted on Nov. 22.
Despite facing criticism for his actions, Castillo defended his actions, claiming he was keeping the homeless safe by arming them with the machetes.
Currently in Little Rock, Arkansas, Castillo plans to continue his nationwide tour, handing out alcohol and machetes to the homeless in different cities.
He has already armed homeless individuals in Austin, New Orleans, and Little Rock, with plans to visit larger cities like Las Vegas and Skid Row in Los Angeles.
While some have questioned the legality and morality of his actions, Castillo remains unfazed and sees it as a way to generate attention and views on social media.
Law enforcement experts have expressed concern over the potential dangers of distributing alcohol and machetes to vulnerable populations.
The original Instagram account where Castillo posted the videos includes advertisements for a betting company, Stake.
Requests for comments from Stake, as well as the Austin Police Department, Little Rock Police Department, and New Orleans Police Department, went unanswered.
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