Mon Valley woman charged with stealing car after being given keys
CHARLEROI – A woman stole a car in Charleroi last month after being given the keys to charge her cellphone, court records allege.
Charleroi Regional police said Samantha Falkentine started her vehicle’s engine for the acquaintance April 29, and returned to a field in Chambers Plaza to watch her son play baseball.
The suspect, Ashley Chalfant, and the red 2008 Suzuki sedan were gone when the ballgame was over, police said in charging documents.
Chalfant, who has addresses in North Charleroi and Rostraver Township, also is accused of driving off with the victim’s purse containing credit cards and her smartphone, the affidavit indicates. The combined value of the stolen items is $3,000.
Falkentine told police she tried to call Chalfant on a relative’s phone and sent her text messages stating “bring back my car” and “where are you?” without receiving a reply.
Police said Chalfant sent a text message to the phone the victim was using about 7:20 p.m. in which she stated, “coming bak now,” but she did not return.
Chalfant is facing felony charges of robbery of a motor vehicle, flight to avoid apprehension, theft, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and driving without a license.
District Judge Larry Hopkins signed a warrant Monday for her arrest.