When discussing reality shows on the Discovery channel, a common piece of advice is to caution individuals against seeking out lifestyles depicted in these shows due to their inherently perilous nature. Among these shows, "Moonshiners" stands out for its unique combination of danger and its complete reliance on an illegal activity.
What Happened to Tickle on Moonshiners?
Throughout the long-running series, none of the cast members, who are moonshiners by trade, have been apprehended in the act of producing moonshine. However, one of the show's central figures, Steven Ray Tickle, has a track record of encounters with the law.
In this video, we'll take a retrospective look at Tickle's notoriety concerning alcohol and his various run-ins with the authorities.
Steven Ray Tickle, a multiple-time felon, has garnered attention in the media with a history of arrests dating as far back as 2013. In that year, he was arrested for public intoxication, an incident that coincided with his announcement that he would run for Congress against U.S. Representative Robert Hunt for the 5th Congressional District in Virginia. The public intoxication arrest was attributed to Tickle drinking from an open container in a parking lot.
What Happened to Tickle on Moonshiners?
In early 2015, Tickle faced another arrest, this time for illegal possession of a firearm, specifically a sawed-off shotgun. He was subsequently convicted on February 1, 2016, and received a three-year suspended penitentiary sentence. However, Tickle's disregard for the law became evident when he violated his probation shortly after, resulting in an additional five months added to his sentence on September 15th.
But Tickle's run-ins with the law didn't stop there. He faced yet another arrest for driving with a suspended license, following a car accident. The judge, understandably, had little patience for Stephen's repeated infractions and ordered him to spend the remaining 18 months of his probation behind bars.
Upon his release from prison, "Moonshiners" caught up with Tickle. Former moonshining partner and close friend Tim Smith was traveling with his son, JT, to introduce him to the art of moonshining in various locations. They picked up Steve, taking him to a diner for his first meal as a free man. During their conversation, Tickle expressed a genuine desire to turn his life around. Since that time, he has indeed managed to stay out of trouble.
In fact, Tickle's life took a positive turn, as he recently got married on October 19, 2019, surrounded by close family and friends, including co-stars Tim Smith, Henry, Kenny Law, former moonshining partner Howie, and, interestingly, his wife, Carol Tickle. Carol is a bail bondswoman who pursued Tickle for six years until he agreed to date her. Tickle recounted a special solo dance she performed when he was heading to the garter toss. A fugitive marrying a bail bondsman is quite the intriguing twist in his story.
As of late, Steve Ray Tickle has maintained a clean record, and his appearance on the series has continued. He has remained actively involved in moonshining, which, despite its portrayal on the show, isn't illegal in itself. The primary issue arises from the lack of taxation when moonshine is distributed. Nevertheless, Tickle's ability to steer clear of prison benefits both him and the show's viewers.
In conclusion, while Steven Ray Tickle had a few tumultuous years marked by alcohol-related issues and arrests, he has since kept his nose clean. He has continued to make regular appearances on "Moonshiners" and stayed involved in the age-old craft of moonshining, all while adhering to the law. The hope is that Tickle continues to stay on the right side of the legal system, for his sake and the enjoyment of the show's fans.
Comments