DENVER — Federal prosecutors have charged a woman in connection with a series of vandalism incidents at a Tesla dealership in Colorado, which included Molotov cocktails being thrown at vehicles and the words “Nazi cars” spray-painted on the building. Messages aimed at the company’s co-founder also accompanied the vandalism.
Lucy Grace Nelson appeared briefly in federal court in Denver following her arrest for malicious destruction of property. Shackled at her ankles and wrists, she was dressed in a purple tie-dye shirt and red-and-black checked pants as she awaited her case.
During the hearing, Magistrate Judge N. Reid Neureiter clarified Nelson’s rights while her mother observed from the gallery. As the judge questioned lawyers regarding the federal charges, Nelson began to speak, but her attorney intervened. Prosecutors argued that the federal government had a compelling interest in the case due to the potential hazards posed by the incendiary devices allegedly used.
Nelson did not claim any income or expenses when applying for a public defender, although her attorney noted she receives family support.
Following the hearing, both Nelson’s mother and attorney declined to comment. Nelson’s sister, Jennifer McCown, stated that her sister is devoted to her family and has recently volunteered to assist the homeless, asserting, “She’s a loving, intelligent person who wouldn’t hurt another person for the world,” while refraining from commenting on the allegations.
Nelson was arrested on state charges after reportedly returning to the dealership in Loveland, Colorado, with additional incendiary devices. It remains unclear if state prosecutors have formally charged her, though local police indicated that federal charges were forthcoming.
After posting bond on state charges, Nelson was taken into federal custody and will remain detained. A court hearing on Tuesday will determine whether she will continue to be held during the federal prosecution.
A conviction on the federal charge carries a potential penalty of at least five years in prison.
This case arises amidst growing concerns about the influence of prominent business figures on governmental administration, and follows recent protests against Tesla locations across the nation.
According to the federal complaint, Nelson is accused of igniting Molotov cocktails made from liquor bottles near vehicles, which reportedly caused minimal damage. The dealership estimates that vandalism incidents over the past month led to damages between $5,000 and $20,000, including significant harm to vehicles.
Loveland police spokesperson Chris Padgett indicated that the investigation may extend to potential involvement from others.
In one incident, an obscenity believed to be targeted at Musk was spray-painted before the suspect fled from a security guard, according to police records.
During her arrest, authorities reportedly discovered cans of spray paint, gasoline, and other materials in Nelson’s vehicle that could be used to facilitate the vandalism.
