Nevada Woman Sentenced After Fatal Crash With Boyfriend Over Tampon Discovery

A Nevada woman has been sentenced to 12–35 years in prison after deliberately driving her car into her boyfriend following a shocking domestic dispute. The case unfolded in May 2024, when 31‑year‑old Julie Bush confronted her 51‑year‑old boyfriend, Richard Penardo Jr., upon discovering another woman’s tampon in his trash can.

According to court documents, the argument escalated violently when Penardo Jr. reportedly struck Bush’s car windows with a steel chain, shattering them. In response, Bush “plowed into” him with her vehicle, sending him crashing into a brick wall. He succumbed to his injuries the next day.

In March 2025, Bush pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and DUI charges related to the incident. During her sentencing on June 17, 2025, prosecutors described the events, and Bush told the court, “I love him very much… I wish I could change it, but I can’t.” Her lawyer noted she is a mother to a 5‑year‑old child.

A judge sentenced Bush to serve between 12 and 35 years behind bars. The case is being treated as a tragic cautionary tale about the dangers of domestic disputes—especially those influenced by alcohol and impulsive anger.