A Minnesota state employee, Dylan Adams, has received a promotion and a pay raise following an incident in March 2025 where he was recorded vandalizing six Tesla vehicles. Adams, a fiscal policy analyst for the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), caused over $21,000 in damage while on duty. The vandalism was captured by the vehicles' built-in cameras.
DHS issued a reprimand for the incident, stating that Adams's actions "seriously undermined public trust and violated our code of ethics." The disciplinary action consisted of a one-day suspension without pay. Adams was not criminally prosecuted by Hennepin County District Attorney Mary Moriarty, whose office pursued a "diversion" of the case. This approach aimed to allow Adams to retain his taxpayer-funded position while arranging restitution.
Last month, Adams was assigned to a temporary role as supervisor of the Disability Services Division’s Fiscal Policy Team, which included a change in compensation. According to the most recent available records reviewed by the Daily Mail, Adams's salary in fiscal year 2025 was approximately $93,000. A DHS spokesperson confirmed the pay increase and stated that further information regarding his current earnings would be provided.
The notes suggest Adams's actions were a form of retaliation following the 2024 election results, with Tesla CEO Elon Musk having supported a political candidate and made significant campaign donations. The period after the election reportedly saw an increase in politically motivated vandalism targeting Teslas, charging stations, and dealerships, with some individuals expressing extreme sentiments against Musk.
Moriarty, the District Attorney, has faced scrutiny for her progressive approach to criminal justice. Notable past controversies include her office's role in overturning a murder conviction from 2004 and a decision to stop prosecuting felony cases originating from low-level traffic stops. Moriarty announced in August 2025 that she would not seek reelection in November 2026.
Morgan's handling of Adams's case drew frustration from Minneapolis police investigators, who expressed concern when cases they worked on were declined. Police Chief Brian O’Hara commented that investigators and victims often feel disheartened by such decisions.