Two sisters arrested for allegedly vandalizing a Charlie Kirk memorial in Bentonville, Arkansas, say they are facing job loss and harassment as they seek financial help for their legal defense.
Arrest and Charges
Kerri Rollo, 23, and Kaylee Rollo, 22, were arrested last week and charged with first-degree criminal mischief, according to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. Video recorded by a witness appears to show Kerri tearing signs and kicking candles at the memorial while making comments critical of the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Police said security cameras also captured Kaylee participating in the incident outside the Benton County Courthouse.
Online Fundraiser and Public Backlash
The sisters launched a GoFundMe campaign seeking $18,000 for legal fees, titled “Fight Against F4cism Help Pay for Our Legal Fees.” In their appeal, Kaylee wrote that the pair has been “threatened, doxxed, harassed, and fired,” claiming violations of their First Amendment rights. As of Monday, donors had contributed more than $14,000.
Reactions on the fundraising page have been mixed. Supporters left messages of solidarity, while some donors contributed small amounts to criticize the sisters’ actions. “Freedom of speech is what you are fighting for but destroy something based on someone else’s,” one anonymous donor wrote.
Employment Fallout
Kerri’s former employer, Bella’s Table, issued a statement distancing itself from the incident, stating that the employee’s actions did not reflect the restaurant’s values. “Our commitment remains to honor our standards and provide a respectful and positive experience for all,” the company said. Kaylee was also reportedly asked to leave her residence by a former roommate’s family following the arrest.
Next Steps in Court
Both sisters were released on bond—$15,000 for Kerri and $7,500 for Kaylee. Kerri requested a public defender while Kaylee retained private counsel. Their next court appearance is scheduled for October 22, according to local officials. Sheriff Shawn Holloway emphasized that vandalism of community memorials “is taken very seriously.”
The case has drawn nationwide attention amid ongoing debate about free speech and public memorials. For more background on legal standards related to vandalism and free expression, visit the U.S. Department of Justice.