- Dylan Bryan Adams, a DHS data analyst, received a one-day unpaid suspension for vandalizing six Tesla vehicles in 2025.
- Adams admitted to damaging the cars to protest Tesla founder Elon Musk, citing political grievances as motivation.
- Despite the damage totaling over $21,000, Hennepin County declined to file criminal charges against Adams, opting for an adult diversion program instead.
MINNEAPOLIS — A Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) data analyst who admitted to vandalizing multiple Tesla vehicles in early 2025 received a one-day unpaid suspension following an internal investigation.
The DHS disclosed the disciplinary action on March 4, 2026, regarding 33-year-old Dylan Bryan Adams. The suspension, served on Jan. 22, 2026, followed a private law firm's independent probe into Adams' conduct. While the labor contract between the state and the Minnesota Association of Professional Employees allowed for penalties ranging from a written reprimand to termination, the agency opted for a single day of unpaid leave.
The 2025 Vandalism Incidents
The vandalism occurred in March 2025, primarily near Adams’ downtown residence and at a Target in Northeast Minneapolis. According to the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD):
Method of Damage: Onboard surveillance cameras from the vehicles captured a man, often walking a dog, scraping the cars with a key.
Financial Impact: Six Teslas were damaged, with repair estimates ranging from $1,600 to $10,370 per vehicle, totaling over $21,000.
Motive: During the investigation, Adams stated he targeted the cars to protest Tesla founder Elon Musk. He cited political grievances and sleep deprivation as contributing factors to his actions.
Legal Diversion and Restitution
Despite the MPD's investigation, the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, led by Mary Moriarty, declined to file criminal charges. Instead, Adams was placed into an adult diversion program for first-time offenders.
Spokesman Daniel Borgertpoepping stated the program was chosen to ensure victims received full restitution while allowing Adams to maintain his employment. The DHS report confirmed that Adams has since paid the restitution in full and completed a "self-reflection" assessment. His participation in the diversion program is scheduled to conclude in May 2026.
Official and Public Response
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara expressed public frustration with the decision not to prosecute, noting that investigators often feel discouraged when cases are declined after significant effort.
The disciplinary letter sent to Adams by the DHS emphasized that state employees are "held to the highest standard of honesty, integrity, and ethical trust." The agency confirmed that Adams remains a current employee of the state. Through his attorney, Adams declined to comment on the specific disciplinary measures taken by his employer.
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