Woman Charged in Series of Tesla Store Vandalism Incidents

The Loveland Police Department has provided details about a suspect arrested following multiple acts of vandalism at the local Tesla store. A 40-year-old individual is now in custody.

Details of the incident

According to Loveland Police Chief Tim Doran, Lucy Grace Nelson, who also goes by Justin Thomas Nelson, was arrested on Monday, February 24. Nelson is 40 years old.

The suspect is believed to be involved in four separate incidents at the Tesla store, occurring on January 29, February 2, and February 7. Investigators found incendiary devices at the scene during these incidents.

When arrested on Monday night, Nelson was inside the Tesla store and had additional incendiary devices in their possession. Materials associated with vandalism were also found.

Chris Padgett, a spokesperson for the Loveland Police Department, told FOX News that the messages left at the store were “very offensive” and “derogatory in nature.”

Nelson was processed at the Larimer County Jail but was later released after posting a $100,000 bond.

Charges filed

The vandalism caused damage to the Tesla store, including smashed windows and painted car windshields. Messages such as “Nazi Cars” were left at the location.

Nelson faces the following charges:

• CRS 18-12-109(4): Use of explosives or incendiary devices during a felony, classified as a Class 2 felony.
• CRS 18-4-501(1)(4)(d): Criminal mischief causing between $2,000 and $5,000 in damage to a business, classified as a Class 6 felony.
• CRS 18-2-101(4): Criminal attempt to commit a Class 3 felony, classified as a Class 4 felony.

The Loveland Police are collaborating with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives’ Denver Field Division. Federal charges are expected to follow.

Padgett commented to USA Today:

“These incidents were not only unlawful, dangerous, and unsettling, they also created an atmosphere of discomfort and worry. Those who work at the business, along with those living in the community, have had to deal with such concerns since the first incident on January 29th,”