A Minnesota state employee’s brazen vandalism of six Teslas has sparked outrage, yet he faces no criminal charges. Dylan Bryan Adams, a 33-year-old fiscal policy analyst, was caught on camera keying the vehicles in Minneapolis. The damage, totaling $21,000, has left victims demanding justice.
The Daily Wire reported that Adams, employed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, targeted the Teslas in a spree that shocked the community. One victim reported to the Minnesota Star Tribune that the scratches on her car resembled a botched attempt to etch a swastika.
The Minneapolis Police Department swiftly identified and arrested Adams, building a solid case. The vandalism caused significant financial harm, with repair costs estimated at $21,000.
Police Chief Brian O’Hara expressed frustration, noting that his team worked diligently to investigate and apprehend the suspect. The case was handed to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office for charging decisions.
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty, a former public defender, opted for a pre-charge diversion program instead of prosecution.
This decision allows Adams to avoid a criminal record while potentially paying restitution and performing community service. Moriarty’s office claims this approach ensures accountability and victim compensation.
“Our main priorities are to secure restitution for the victims and hold Mr. Adams accountable,” said Daniel Borgertpoepping, a spokesman for Moriarty’s office. He emphasized that the diversion program helps Adams keep his job to afford restitution. Criminal charges could still be filed if Adams reoffends.
The diversion program requires participants to sign a contract, which may include community service and restitution payments, according to the Star Tribune. This lenient approach has drawn criticism from those who believe vandalism of this scale warrants harsher consequences. Victims and police alike feel let down by the decision.
“The Minneapolis Police Department did its job,” Chief O’Hara stated. He highlighted the effort put into identifying the crime trend and arresting Adams. O’Hara directed frustration solely at Moriarty’s office, noting the emotional toll on investigators and victims.
The police chief underscored the impact on the six victims, whose property suffered extensive damage. “Our investigators are always frustrated when the cases they poured their hearts into are declined,” O’Hara added. He suggested victims share the same disappointment with the county attorney’s choice.
The Minnesota Department of Human Services is reviewing Adams’s conduct, emphasizing high ethical standards for employees. “State employees are expected to follow our code of conduct,” the department told the Star Tribune. No further disciplinary actions have been publicly disclosed.
Moriarty, who took office in January 2023, has prioritized police accountability and addressing the root causes. KFGO reported in July 2024 that she aims to shift the office’s culture away from punitive measures. Her approach has sparked debate, with some praising her reforms and others decrying leniency.
Gretchen Gray-Larson, a retired attorney from Moriarty’s office, described a troubled workplace. “People are afraid to talk,” Gray-Larson said, noting low morale among colleagues before her July 2023 retirement. Her comments suggest internal challenges within the county attorney’s office.
The decision to spare Adams prosecution has fueled public discontent, particularly among conservative voices. A social media post by CrimeWatchMpls on April 18, 2025, sarcastically called Minneapolis “the heart of MAGA Country,” highlighting local frustration. The post reflected broader anger over perceived soft-on-crime policies.
Victims of Adams’ vandalism are left grappling with costly repairs and a sense of injustice. The attempted swastika carving, though unconfirmed, has raised concerns about deeper motives behind the attacks.
Moriarty’s defenders argue that diversion programs reduce recidivism and ensure restitution, preserving jobs and stability. Critics, however, see it as a slap on the wrist for a state employee who should face stricter consequences. The case has reignited debates over crime and punishment in Minneapolis.
As the Minnesota Department of Human Services reviews Adams’ actions, the public awaits clarity on his employment status. The incident underscores tensions between reform-minded policies and demands for traditional justice. For now, Adams walks free, but the community’s trust in the system is shaken.