Even though Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi gained worldwide notoriety as one of the stars on “Jersey Shore,” she was already well-known in her hometown for being criminally charged in connection with a classmate’s death.

In 2004, Snooki was one of three people charged in connection with the death of Michael Truncali, a Marlboro, N.Y., high school senior. He died with a blood alcohol content of .18, more than twice the legal limit, when he crashed his car on Thanksgiving morning after drinking for several hours the previous night at Snooki’s house.

Snooki was charged with prohibited sale of alcoholic beverages for charging party attendees for drinks. Ironically, Snooki is now the breakout star on a reality show that glorifies frequent partying and drinking.

Although Michael’s parents say they do not necessarily blame Snooki, they do hope that by speaking out they can spread the message about the tragic consequences of underage drinking and driving.