A vacation in Dubai for a Houston trucker-turned-TikTok influencer has turned into a nightmare.
Tierra Young Allen, 29, has been detained in Dubai for almost two months after screaming at a rental car employee.
According to her mother, Tina Baxter, Allen went to the rental car agency to retrieve her belongings from the car after a minor accident.
She was met with an aggressive and rude staff member who demanded an undisclosed amount of money from her.
Allen raised her voice in response, which is considered a crime in the predominantly Muslim city.
She was arrested and charged with screaming in public, and her passport was confiscated.
She faces possible jail time and a travel ban while the investigation is ongoing.
Her family and friends are worried and outraged by her situation.
They have hired a lawyer in Dubai and contacted the American consulate for help.
Community activist Quanell X said Allen did not commit a crime and should not be punished for doing what a man can do in Dubai.
He said Dubai has a strict law system based on theocracy and that laws and customs are very different from the U.S.
He urged the authorities to release Allen and respect her rights as a woman.
Allen is a popular TikTok influencer who documents her truck-driving journeys and lifestyle on social media.
She has over 300,000 followers on TikTok and over 100,000 followers on Instagram.
She is known for delivering and picking up luxury items such as cars, boats, and jewelry.
She also posts videos of her travels, fashion, and beauty tips.
Her fans have expressed their support and prayers for her on her accounts.
They have also started a hashtag #FreeTierra to raise awareness of her case.