A Kentucky woman is facing felony charges after allegedly going on a destructive spree against her ex-boyfriend’s car, causing damages estimated at more than $12,000.
Stephanie Carlquist, 31, was arrested last week and charged with first-degree criminal mischief after police say she poured salt into the car’s engine, put glitter in the air conditioning vents, slashed tires, and shattered multiple parts of the vehicle.
Court documents show the damage occurred across two incidents in July. On July 6, Carlquist allegedly slashed one of her ex’s tires to prevent him from leaving her home. Following an argument on July 15, she returned to the car and is accused of pouring salt into the engine, glittering the vents, smashing the windshield, mirrors, and radio screen.
The ex-boyfriend later towed the car to a Goodyear repair shop, where mechanics determined the vehicle was “completely damaged beyond repair” with damages totaling $12,464.
Police said Carlquist openly admitted to the destruction when speaking to the tow truck driver, who then informed the victim’s mother. Investigators also obtained Instagram messages in which Carlquist confessed and apologized, blaming stress from her pregnancy. In one message, she downplayed the damage, writing: “The only thing I did was put glitter in the air vents and hurt the windshield. He was overdue for oil and motor and everything else. Oh, and the tire.”
Her father also allegedly acknowledged her role in text messages to the victim, adding that he wanted to find a resolution without felony charges.
Under Kentucky law, first-degree criminal mischief is a Class D felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Carlquist was released after posting a $12,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court for her arraignment on Monday.
