Richmond, KY – A Kentucky woman’s mugshot has gone viral after she allegedly caused more than $12,000 in damage to her ex-boyfriend’s car, with her smiling expression in the photo raising eyebrows across social media.
Alleged Vandalism Details
Stephanie Carlquist, 31, is accused of vandalizing the vehicle between July 6 and July 20, during a series of incidents that included pouring salt into the engine, placing glitter into the air vents, slashing a tire, cracking the rearview mirror and windshield, and breaking the radio screen. The vehicle was co-owned by Carlquist’s ex-boyfriend’s mother, and the damage was estimated at $12,464.
The car was ultimately deemed “completely damaged” and “beyond repair”, with a Goodyear repair shop totaling it.
Charges and Mugshot Controversy
Carlquist was charged with first-degree felony criminal mischief and has since been released on $12,000 bail. She is scheduled for an upcoming arraignment.
Despite the serious nature of the charges, Carlquist’s mugshot, where she is smiling, has sparked attention online.
Partial Admission and Apology
According to a criminal complaint obtained by Fox News, Carlquist partially admitted to the vandalism in an email to her ex-boyfriend’s mother, stating: “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.”
She also offered to pay for the damages and even offered her own car to her ex-boyfriend, according to the complaint.
Reason for the Alleged Vandalism
Carlquist, who is reportedly pregnant, claimed that she was “stressed out” when she caused the damage. She also faced attempts from her father to intervene and prevent a felony charge.
In a text message to Carlquist’s ex-boyfriend, her father allegedly stated, “He’s sure they can come to a better solution than Stephanie taking a felony charge, so nobody gets hurt anymore.”
The Fallout and Public Reaction
The story of Carlquist’s vandalism spree and the viral nature of her smiling mugshot has led to widespread attention. While her actions have caused significant damage to the vehicle, the image of her smiling mugshot has sparked debate about the seriousness of the crime.
What’s your take? Do you think Carlquist’s smiling mugshot makes light of the charges, or is it just a coincidence? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
