Woman arrested after allegedly stealing car to visit friend in jail

A woman was arrested Friday after a police chase that resulted when she allegedly stole a car in Anchorage and drove it to the Palmer Correctional Center to visit a friend.

Kristin M. Hansen, 18, was charged with first-degree theft, felony eluding, misuse of plates and driving in violation of an instruction permit.

The Alaska State Troopers received a call from the Anchorage Police Department at about 6 p.m. Friday, reporting that they believed the person who stole the car was in the Palmer area. The 2001 Chevrolet Blazer disappeared from an Anchorage residence earlier that day.

Troopers found the Blazer at the Palmer Correctional Center, parked in the parking lot. Hansen went there to visit a friend, according to police reports. At about 7:30 p.m., they watched as she reportedly climbed into the vehicle and drove away.

Troopers attempted to stop the Blazer but the driver sped off down the Glenn Highway towards Palmer, according to trooper reports. The driver, later identified as Hansen, finally stopped at Carrs and was arrested in the parking lot.

Hansen also had an outstanding warrant for her arrest on a shoplifting charge.

She was taken to Mat-Su Pre-Trial Facility and held in lieu of $10,500 bail.