Kentucky Woman Accused of Causing $12,000 in Damage to Ex-Boyfriend’s Car

Just a reminder:  The Carrie Underwood song "Before He Cheats" is not an instruction manual...

Felony charge filed after unusual vandalism

A woman in Madison County, Kentucky, is facing serious charges after police say she caused more than $12,000 in damage to her ex-boyfriend’s vehicle. Court records show that 34-year-old Stephanie Carlquist has been charged with first-degree criminal mischief, a felony offense.

Damage described as “beyond repair”

Investigators allege the destruction occurred between July 6 and July 20. According to reports, Carlquist targeted multiple parts of the car. Police say she poured salt into the engine, dumped glitter into the air vents, slashed a tire, cracked the windshield and rearview mirror, and even smashed the radio screen. The vehicle eventually had to be towed and was later deemed a total loss.

Goodyear Auto Service reportedly inspected the car and placed the damage estimate at more than $12,000. Police noted in their report that the extent of the vandalism left the car “completely damaged beyond repair.”

Messages reveal admission

Court documents also include messages Carlquist allegedly sent to her ex-boyfriend admitting to some of the damage. In one exchange, she reportedly wrote, “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.”  

Bond and court date set

Carlquist was arrested and booked into the Madison County Detention Center, where she is being held on a $12,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in court for arraignment on Monday, August 18.
If convicted, she could face significant penalties under Kentucky law for felony criminal mischief.

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