On April 23, 2026, at approximately 2:31 PM, law enforcement were alerted to a Flock camera hit on a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt that was reported stolen (the "Vehicle") out of Benton County. The Vehicle was traveling westbound on Highway 8 near Taylors Falls. Law enforcement shortly thereafter found the Vehicle westbound on Highway 8 in Chisago County, Minnesota, and began to follow it. The license plate returned to a stolen vehicle. The description of the stolen vehicle matched the Vehicle law enforcement were following.
The Vehicle was driving erratically, aggressively changing speeds, driving over the fog line, driving onto the shoulder for extended periods, and crossing into oncoming lanes at times. A traffic stop was performed and the driver was identified as ASHLEY LAUREN MAY ([DOB redacted]), Defendant herein. She appeared to be under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. Her eyes were watery and blood shot, she smelled of alcohol, her face was flushed, and her demeanor was erratic. She did not have a valid driver's license.
She was arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle and DWI. Local law enforcement learned from Benton County that the owner of the Vehicle stated the Vehicle was stolen on April 22, 2026. The Vehicle was left unlocked and the key was in the ignition. The owner did not give anyone permission to use it. Defendant provided a Mirandized statement to law enforcement. She stated that she stole the Vehicle and did not have permission to take it. She noted that the Vehicle was unlocked and the keys were in the ignition.
She admitted that she was a methamphetamine user and had used earlier in the day. She submitted breath samples to a DMT machine that registered a.07 BAC.
