School Gate Crash Leads to Felony Charge for Hawthorne Woman

GAINESVILLE – A Hawthorne woman is facing charges after deputies say she intentionally drove her vehicle through a locked security gate at Eastside High School on Thursday morning, causing thousands of dollars in damage.

The incident occurred at about 9:36 a.m. Oct. 23, 2025, on the north side of the campus. According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, the School Resource Deputy responded after receiving a report that a vehicle had driven through the school’s front security gate. The gate is typically secured with a chain after school begins at 8:30 a.m.

Deputies reported finding a car stopped on school property just beyond the damaged gate. The driver reportedly identified herself as 44-year-old Kelly Jenette Brooker of Hawthorne and told the deputy she pushed the gate open with her car because she was attempting to get to Hawthorne City Hall. According to the report, she acknowledged knowing the gate was closed and locked.

Although Brooker reportedly said she was trying to reach Hawthorne City Hall, that location is not in the immediate area. Eastside High School, located in Gainesville, is approximately 15 miles northwest of Hawthorne City Hall, a drive of about 20 minutes.

Deputies estimated the cost of the damage at approximately $3,000.

After being advised of her Miranda rights, Brooker reportedly admitted she intentionally forced the gate open to enter the campus. Deputies said she did not have a valid driver’s license. Records noted four prior misdemeanor traffic convictions, including a DUI conviction that resulted in her license being revoked.

Brooker was charged with felony property damage and driving without a valid license. She was later released on her own recognizance by Judge Jonathan Ramsey.

No injuries were reported, and there were no reports of attempts to enter school facilities. The Sheriff’s Office did not release additional details regarding the vehicle or whether anyone else was present during the incident.

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