A Kentucky woman is facing felony charges after allegedly destroying her ex-boyfriend’s car by pouring salt into the gas tank, stuffing glitter into the air-conditioning vents and causing thousands of dollars in damage.
Authorities identified the suspect as 31-year-old Stephanie Carlquist, who is pregnant.
Police reported that Carlquist carried out the alleged damage following an argument with her former boyfriend in July.
Carlquist targeted the vehicle’s engine by dumping salt into the gas tank, according to police documents.
She also allegedly poured glitter into the air-conditioning system, leaving behind residue throughout the car’s interior.
Law enforcement officials stated that the damage went beyond the engine and AC system.
Investigators said Carlquist slashed one of the car’s tires, cracked the windshield, damaged the rearview mirror and shattered the radio display.
Reports indicate that the ex-boyfriend told police Carlquist had previously slashed a tire during a dispute on July 6. However, he said the additional destruction occurred on July 15.
The total estimated damage from the incident reached $12,464.96, according to police.
The damage was so extensive that the vehicle was declared totaled.
Authorities reported that Carlquist admitted her actions to the tow truck driver who was called to remove the vehicle.
She also allegedly phoned her ex-boyfriend’s mother to confess what she had done.
Shortly after the incident, Carlquist allegedly sent her ex-boyfriend a message through Instagram.
In that message, she apologized and explained that she was under stress due to her pregnancy.
During her police interview, officers said Carlquist admitted to breaking the windshield and placing glitter inside the car vents.
She, however, denied responsibility for other aspects of the damage, claiming the car was already in poor condition due to being “overdue” for an oil change and maintenance.
Carlquist was booked into the Madison County Detention Center following her arrest.
Authorities reported she smiled in her mugshot after being taken into custody.
She faces felony criminal mischief charges connected to the alleged destruction.
Her bond was set at $12,000.
Under Kentucky law, criminal mischief charges are divided into several degrees based on the amount of property damage.
First-degree criminal mischief is a Class D felony, typically applied when damage exceeds $1,000.
Court records indicate that Carlquist’s case falls into this category because of the estimated $12,464.96 in damages.
The Kentucky Penal Code states that a Class D felony is punishable by one to five years in prison.
Offenders also may face fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000.
Judges may additionally order restitution to cover the cost of damages to the victim.
Police records confirm the investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
Officials did not release additional details about Carlquist’s court appearance or potential sentencing if convicted.
The New York Post reported that the Madison County Detention Center confirmed her booking but did not provide information about her release status.
If she posts bond, she will remain under court supervision until her case proceeds.
Kentucky courts handle felony criminal mischief cases at the circuit court level.
Prosecutors will determine whether to pursue the maximum penalty allowed under state law.
In some cases, plea agreements may reduce sentencing, though restitution for damages typically remains part of the final judgment.
As of now, Carlquist remains charged and awaiting further legal proceedings.
No trial date has been set, and court officials have not released a timeline for when her case will move forward.
