Newly disclosed records show that a Minnesota Department of Human Services employee received a one-day unpaid suspension after admitting to keying six Tesla vehicles in Minneapolis last year, causing an estimated $20,000 in damage.

Dylan Bryan Adams, a fiscal policy analyst and compliance lead on DHS's Program Integrity Team, was disciplined for the incidents that occurred over a one- to two-week period in March 2025. Surveillance footage from the vehicles captured Adams approaching and scraping the cars with a key, sometimes while walking a dog. Damage estimates ranged from $1,600 to more than $10,000 per vehicle.

In an internal DHS investigation, Adams admitted to the vandalism. He told investigators he acted out of anger over Elon Musk's actions during the 2024 presidential campaign, including what he perceived as a Nazi salute at a rally. Adams said he hoped the owners would disassociate themselves from Musk and Tesla. He also cited sleep deprivation and expressed regret, stating he did not fully comprehend the consequences.

The Hennepin County Attorney's Office, led by Mary Moriarty, declined to file criminal charges. Adams entered an adult diversion program for first-time, low-level offenders, requiring full restitution to victims, which he paid, along with a self-reflection assessment and other conditions through May 2026.

At DHS, where Adams has worked for more than seven years, the agency issued a disciplinary letter, citing violations of policies on honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior. Possible penalties under the labor contract included up to termination, but the one-day penalty was deemed appropriate after review.

Time records showed Adams logged as working or on approved leave during some incidents, though he claimed to be on break or out sick. The DHS report found insufficient evidence that he vandalized vehicles while on the clock.

The incidents drew attention amid tensions between Gov. Tim Walz and Musk. On March 18, 2025, the first day of reported vandalism, Walz remarked that watching Tesla's stock price fall gave him "a little boost during the day." Adams reportedly shared Walz's disdain for Musk.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara voiced frustration over the no-charges decision, saying, "Our investigators are always frustrated when the cases they poured their hearts into are declined. In my experience, the victims in these cases often feel the same." Minnesota House Republican Leader Harry Niska called the punishment "outrageous," questioning accountability in the Walz administration and calling for Adams's termination.

DHS stated it holds employees to high standards of ethical behavior. Adams, through his attorney, declined comment on the discipline. The case reflects a broader wave of vandalism targeting Teslas linked to Musk's political involvement.