Michigan Woman Faces Judgment After Zoom Court Appearance While Driving
A Metro Detroit woman, Kimberly D. Carroll, found herself in legal trouble and the center of a viral social media moment after appearing to drive during a virtual court hearing on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. The incident, which unfolded in the 33rd District Court in Woodhaven before Judge Michael K. McNally, resulted in a default judgment against Carroll in a debt collection case.
Late Appearance and Questionable Circumstances
The hearing concerned a case brought by LVMV Funding against Carroll, alleging a debt of $1,788.80, plus $75 in court costs and a $585 service fee, totaling $1,921.85 (ClickOnDetroit). Carroll joined the Zoom hearing late, initially without her camera activated. When she finally turned it on, Judge McNally immediately observed that she appeared to be inside a moving vehicle.
“You cannot be driving,” McNally stated. “Ma’am, what are you doing? Come on.” (ClickOnDetroit)
Denials and Default Judgment
Carroll initially insisted she was not driving, claiming to be a passenger. “I’m not driving. I’m a passenger in a car,” she said, adding that she would pull over. (ClickOnDetroit) However, Judge McNally remained unconvinced, noting the seatbelt appeared to be coming from the driver’s side and that Carroll was seated on the left side of the vehicle. He questioned her claim, asking, “How would you be on the left-hand side if you’re a passenger in the front seat?” (ClickOnDetroit)
When asked to show the driver, Carroll hesitated, stating she needed to inquire for their permission. (ClickOnDetroit) Judge McNally directly accused her of lying, asking, “You know, you’re lying to me, right? You think I’m that stupid?” (ClickOnDetroit)
Crucially, Judge McNally had already entered a default judgment against Carroll for failing to appear on time. (Detroit News) He subsequently upheld the judgment of $1,921.85, citing her dishonesty. (ClickOnDetroit)
Judge McNally’s Response and Viral Attention
Judge Michael K. McNally, the longest-serving judge of Michigan’s 33rd District Court (Latest York Post), firmly stated he would not conduct hearings with individuals driving or riding as passengers in vehicles. The exchange was recorded and quickly gained widespread attention on social media, highlighting both Carroll’s actions and McNally’s direct approach. (ClickOnDetroit)
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