Key Takeaways
- Tampa businesswoman Karley Gerbenskey, owner of Blo Blow Dry Bar, was arrested in September 2024 for DUI, resisting arrest, and battery on a law enforcement officer.
- Bodycam footage of the arrest went viral online, showing Gerbenskey boasting about her wealth and displaying behavior that led to her being labeled a “Rich Karen” on social media.
- The incident has caused significant damage to Gerbenskey’s reputation, with former employees and the public expressing satisfaction at her legal troubles.
Tampa businesswoman Karley Gerbenskey, the owner of Blo Blow Dry Bar, was arrested in September 2024 for driving under the influence (DUI), resisting arrest, and battery on a law enforcement officer.
The news of her arrest, along with a video of the incident, has gone viral on social media, drawing significant attention and criticism.
Arrest Details
According to official records, Karley Jean Gerbenskey, 33, was taken into custody by the Tampa Police Department (TPD) on September 10, 2024, at 10:31 PM.
She was pulled over at Henderson Blvd, W Watrous Ave in Hillsborough, Florida, where officers suspected she was intoxicated.
Her charges included:
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence) – Bond: $500
- Resisting Officer Without Violence – Bond: $500
- Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer – Bond: $5,000
Incident Breakdown
Eyewitnesses and body cam footage suggest that Gerbenskey’s behavior escalated quickly after being stopped by officers.
She reportedly refused to comply with sobriety tests and insisted she had only had one drink. However, her erratic and confrontational responses led officers to suspect she was under the influence.
The situation took a turn when Gerbenskey became aggressive, allegedly resisting the officers’ attempts to conduct field sobriety tests.
At one point, she physically assaulted a peace officer, leading to the most serious charge against her.
“Rich Karen” Video Goes Viral
The bodycam footage of the arrest quickly gained traction online, with viewers dubbing her a “Rich Karen” due to her arrogant demeanor and claims of wealth.
In the video, she boasts about earning $700,000 a year and owning multiple businesses, seemingly believing this would exempt her from legal consequences.
However, her dismissive and entitled attitude backfired, as officers proceeded with the arrest despite her protests.
One viral comment summed up public sentiment:
“You know ALL of her employees are going to really, really, REALLY enjoy this bodycam video.”
Via Reddit
Another viewer pointed out her previous public recognition, saying:
“Apparently, she was named a ‘Woman to Watch’ by Tampa Magazine last year.”
Via Reddit
An alleged former employee of Gerbenskey also chimed in:
“As an ex-employee, this was the highlight of my year.”
Via Reddit
I can assure you this woman didn’t become successful because of hard work.
She is obviously someone that had “it” given to her. Also, must have some strong and hardworking employees backing her that keeps the business running.
Anyone that speaks and behaves the way she had, thinks she is a diva and thought she will once again walk away with the golden prize! But not all people appreciate women (or men) like her, that thinks the world revolves around them.
The police body cam was released. It’s a must see…
This woman is absolutely insufferable and has zero class. It’s also time for her to update the business photo…someone has been eating well. That $700,000 she earns has bought a lot of food.
That’s a rough looking 33 year old.