California Woman Faces Felony Charges for Stealing Hat from Iconic ‘Big Orange Boat’

The Big Orange Boat in Lake Havasu City has recently experienced issues with theft and trespassing, prompting concerns for its owners and customers. A 37-year-old woman from Huntington Beach, California, was cited for felony theft this week following an incident involving the floating concession stand.

According to the Lake Havasu City Police Department, the Big Orange Boat, which serves boaters food and other goods, was docked near Rotary Park Beach when the incident occurred. Due to previous reports of unauthorized boarding, the owners had installed surveillance cameras on the vessel.

On Tuesday afternoon, around 1:46 p.m., the boat’s owner received a motion alert from the surveillance system. Video footage revealed Kristine L. Kimball onboard the vessel without permission. Audio captured during the incident recorded Kimball mentioning her intent to “borrow” a hat from a mannequin situated on the boat. She was subsequently seen leaving while wearing the hat, valued at approximately $50.

After the alleged theft, witnesses reported a personal watercraft departing the area. Hours later, Kimball returned to the scene, prompting the boat’s owners to notify law enforcement. Although she attempted to return the hat, the owners declined, citing that it was now used and no longer had resale value.

When questioned by the police, Kimball admitted to taking the hat. She was cited at the scene on felony theft charges. However, court records indicate that the charges will now be processed as a misdemeanor in the Lake Havasu Municipal Court, with proceedings initiated against her on Thursday.