A Lake Havasu City woman has been sentenced to nearly two years in prison following a plea agreement in a case involving vehicle theft and probation violations.

The case unfolded on June 19 when a man left his car running outside a Safeway grocery store and went inside for a quick purchase. Authorities state that during his brief absence, 49-year-old Vanessa A. Uhley entered the vehicle and tried to drive away just as the owner returned.

The owner confronted Uhley, who allegedly claimed, “We’re friends,” although they were not acquainted. The owner then removed the keys from the ignition, prompting Uhley to exit the vehicle and walk away. The victim immediately contacted law enforcement.

Officers quickly found Uhley and questioned her about the incident. She told them she was trying to escape a difficult situation and believed the car had been left for her to take. Security footage confirmed that the car belonged to the victim, leading to Uhley’s arrest on one felony count of vehicle theft.

Uhley later pleaded guilty to violating her probation and charges related to the unlawful use of a vehicle. This month, Mohave Superior Judge Derek Carlisle sentenced her to a cumulative 22-month term in the Arizona Department of Corrections.

She remains in custody at Mohave County Jail, pending her transfer to a state facility.