RICHMOND, KY – A Kentucky woman is facing felony charges after authorities say she caused more than $12,000 in damage to her ex-boyfriend’s car through a series of destructive acts in July.

Stephanie Carlquist, 31, was arrested last week in Richmond and charged with first-degree criminal mischief, according to court records. The criminal mischief charge is classified as a Class D felony under Kentucky law and carries a potential sentence of up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

The investigation began after Carlquist’s former boyfriend contacted police to report that his vehicle had been rendered inoperable through multiple incidents spanning several days. According to police documents, the initial act occurred on July 6, when Carlquist allegedly slashed one of the vehicle’s tires at her home, preventing him from leaving.

Tensions reportedly escalated after the pair argued on July 15. In the days that followed, authorities allege that Carlquist returned to the car and poured salt into the engine, scattered glitter into the air conditioning vents, and shattered several components, including the windshield and radio display. She is accused of further damaging the car’s rearview mirrors.

On July 20, the car’s owner had the vehicle transported to a local repair shop after finding it extensively vandalized. According to estimates provided by mechanics, the total repair costs for the damage exceeded $12,000. Ultimately, technicians declared the vehicle a total loss, unable to be restored to working condition.

The Richmond Police Department stated that Carlquist spoke candidly to the tow truck driver who arrived at her address to collect the car, openly admitting to causing the damage. The driver later notified the ex-boyfriend’s mother, who was also a co-owner of the vehicle, about the confession.

Further evidence emerged in the form of Instagram messages allegedly sent from Carlquist to her former boyfriend, in which she acknowledged her actions and expressed remorse. In her messages, Carlquist said she was “just stressed out” because of her pregnancy, and admitted to some, but not all, of the reported acts of vandalism.

Authorities also reviewed text messages from Carlquist’s father, who told the victim that his daughter was responsible for destroying the car and assured him that he would seek to make restitution for the damages. The father reportedly asked if a resolution could be reached without his daughter incurring a felony record.

Following her arrest, Carlquist posted a $12,000 bond and was released from custody. She is scheduled to appear in court for her arraignment on Monday.

The investigation remains ongoing, with law enforcement reviewing all available evidence and statements from those involved.