Staff Report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Kelly Jenette Brooker, a 44-year-old resident of Hawthorne, is facing charges of felony property damage following an incident in which she allegedly used her vehicle to intentionally break through the security gate at Eastside High School.

The incident occurred around 9:36 a.m. on October 23, when the School Resource Deputy at the high school received a report of a car crashing through the school’s front security gate, located on the north side of the campus. According to the deputy, the gate is usually secured with a chain after classes commence at 8:30 a.m. Upon arrival, the deputy discovered a vehicle halted in front of the damaged gate, situated on school grounds.

The driver, who was identified as Brooker, reportedly admitted to using her car to force the gate open, stating her intention was to reach Hawthorne City Hall. She also acknowledged her awareness that the gate was closed and locked at the time.

The estimated cost of the damage to the gate is approximately $3,000.

Post Miranda, Brooker reportedly admitted that she had intentionally forced the gate open with her car to gain access to the school’s campus.

Brooker has been charged with felony property damage and driving without a valid license. She has four misdemeanor convictions (all traffic), including a DUI conviction that resulted in the revocation of her license. Judge Jonathan Ramsey ordered her released on her own recognizance.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.