Tesla Vandal in Bloomington, Minnesota Let Off the Hook After Keying Car

A recent incident in Bloomington, Minnesota, saw a Tesla vandal causing $3,200 in damages to a parked car by keying it. Despite the act of vandalism, the local police department and the Tesla owner chose to show compassion and let the perpetrator off the hook.

The vandalism took place in the parking lot of a Cub Foods grocery store, where a Tesla was targeted in an unfortunate act that is becoming all too common. The police were able to identify the woman responsible for keying the vehicle and sought to hold her accountable for the damage inflicted.

However, in a surprising turn of events, the Tesla owner decided not to press criminal charges against the vandal. Instead, they simply wanted the damages to their car repaired.

Police Chief Booker Hodges explained that the victim’s decision was driven by the desire to have their car fixed and for the suspect to take responsibility for their actions. He stated, “Based on the totality of the circumstances here, and along with our core value of being compassionate, this is the best outcome for everybody involved in this case.”

This act of forgiveness by the Tesla owner stands out amidst a backdrop of escalating incidents where Tesla vehicles have been targeted due to negative sentiments towards CEO Elon Musk. In a similar case, a Tesla owner had filed a civil lawsuit against a vandal who damaged their car at an airport, seeking $1 million in damages.

Chief Hodges also called for an end to the hateful rhetoric surrounding Musk and Tesla, emphasizing the need for unity and mutual respect among individuals, regardless of their choice of vehicle. He urged leaders to refrain from spreading divisive narratives that incite such acts of vandalism.

Notably, Minnesota politician Tim Walz had made a statement earlier about finding pleasure in Tesla stock declines, which he later clarified as a joke. Chief Hodges’ remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of fostering a culture of tolerance and understanding, where individuals can freely choose their mode of transportation without fear of harassment or damage to their property.