Seems that lady who fell into the mall fountain while texting (in a video that went viral, and resulted in her heartfelt news appearances) seems to have some prior convictions on her record… a few retail thefts and a hit and run.

At least she didn’t appear to get any shoplifted goodies wet. For more information on Cathy Cruz Marrero, and some other “text-while-walking fails,” see Yahoo coverage.

Here’s an audio report of Cathy’s reaction, and the fact that she’s hiring an attorney based on treatment by mall security. It’s much easier to delegate theft to a licensed attorney. (Take it from a guy who’s still feeling a cold hand nipping at his wallet).

U.S. Security Associates, the company that provides security at mall, said that a security guard responsible for sharing the video had been fired (Fox News). But we can only hope the Berkshire mall will make some safety accommodations for people unable to curtail their text obsessions. It’s a civil right, isn’t it?

Favorite coverage to date? Helen Popkin, Technolog on MSNBC, warning that the Streisand effect is kicking in. Maybe Fountain-Fail Lady and Richard Heene can co-write a book on how viral can enhance a public image.