Massachusetts Man Sentenced to Probation for Driving Pickup Truck on CU Boulder's Folsom Field

Karl E. Haglund pleaded guilty to reckless endangerment and criminal mischief charges after a dangerous traffic incident on campus.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:18pm

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Karl E. Haglund, a 49-year-old Massachusetts resident, has been sentenced to three years of probation and 150 hours of community service for driving a pickup truck onto CU Boulder's Folsom Field in September 2024, causing significant damage to the turf. Haglund pleaded guilty to charges of reckless endangerment and criminal mischief as part of a plea agreement, with several other charges being dismissed.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the potential dangers of unauthorized vehicle access to university campuses and the importance of addressing underlying issues, such as addiction, that may contribute to reckless behavior. The case also raises questions about campus security and the balance between public safety and individual rehabilitation.

The details

According to court records, Haglund first crashed his pickup truck near Foothills Parkway and Arapahoe Avenue, prompting a police response. He then drove away, nearly hitting a person, before crashing into another car and trees. Haglund then rammed a gate and drove onto Folsom Field, where he caused significant damage to the turf. After police arrived on the scene, Haglund surrendered to authorities.

  • On a Thursday night in September 2024, Haglund reportedly drove his pickup truck onto Folsom Field at CU Boulder.
  • Haglund was previously sentenced to probation in a 2002 driving while ability impaired case in Boulder County.

The players

Karl E. Haglund

A 49-year-old Massachusetts resident who pleaded guilty to reckless endangerment and criminal mischief charges for driving a pickup truck onto CU Boulder's Folsom Field in 2024.

Boulder County District Court Judge Andrew Hartman

The judge who sentenced Haglund to three years of probation and 150 hours of community service, noting Haglund's struggles with addiction and his resilience in the aftermath of the incident.

Deputy District Attorney Sierra Grob

The prosecutor who asked the court to sentence Haglund to three years of probation and 90 days in jail.

Kelly Schulten

Haglund's attorney, who asked the court to avoid sentencing Haglund to more days in jail and stick to the probation.

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What they’re saying

“I deeply regret what happened. I was not the only one hurt by my actions.”

— Karl E. Haglund (denverpost.com)

“It was an extremely dangerous situation with this traffic rampage. He has struggled with addiction, and staying sober in the aftermath of driving on the field and dealing with court procedures has proved Haglund's resilience.”

— Judge Andrew Hartman, Boulder County District Court Judge (denverpost.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Karl E. Haglund to serve his probation in his home state of Massachusetts.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for universities to prioritize campus security and work closely with local law enforcement to address reckless behavior, while also considering the underlying factors, such as addiction, that may contribute to such incidents. The sentencing reflects a balance between public safety and rehabilitation, raising questions about the effectiveness of probation in deterring similar crimes.