A Kentucky woman is facing charges after police say she deliberately destroyed her ex-boyfriend’s car by pouring salt into the engine and stuffing glitter into the air conditioning system. According to a criminal complaint filed by the Richmond Police Department, 28-year-old Stephanie Carlquist is accused of causing more than $12,000 in damage following a series of arguments with her former partner in July.
The complaint states that the first incident occurred on July 6, when Carlquist allegedly slashed one of the car’s tires. Days later, on July 15, police say she escalated the destruction by pouring salt into the engine, filling the AC vent with glitter, cracking the windshield and rear-view mirror, and shattering the vehicle’s radio screen.
The ex-boyfriend told officers that after the damage, the car was towed to a Goodyear location in Richmond. Mechanics there determined the vehicle was a total loss, estimating the damage at $12,464.96, and reported by CBS and CW affiliate WKYT.
Police said the case took a turn when the tow truck driver reported that Carlquist admitted to causing the destruction while they were moving the vehicle. The driver then alerted the victim’s mother to what had been said.
Following the tow, Carlquist allegedly sent her ex-boyfriend a message on Instagram, apologizing for the damage and explaining that she had been under stress because of her pregnancy.
Investigators said that during an interview, Carlquist admitted to putting glitter in the vents and damaging the windshield. However, she denied responsibility for some of the mechanical problems, claiming the car was already overdue for oil changes and maintenance.
Authorities charged Carlquist with felony criminal mischief. She was booked into the Madison County Detention Center, where her bond was set at $12,000. Jail records confirm that she remains in custody.
The unusual details of the case have attracted attention both locally and online, with the glitter-in-the-vent allegation standing out as one of the more unusual acts of vandalism. While police emphasized the seriousness of the felony charge, residents noted the bizarre nature of the methods reportedly used to damage the car.
For the victim, the incident has ended with the complete loss of his vehicle and more than $12,000 in damages, costs that authorities say may become part of restitution if Carlquist is convicted. The case remains under investigation as prosecutors prepare to move forward with the felony charge.