Seattle police detectives arrested a 43-year-old man Monday afternoon for keying a Tesla eight weeks ago, causing nearly $4,000 in damages.
On Aug. 9, the victim reported to police that someone intentionally damaged his car while it was parked in a garage in the 1500 block of 7th Avenue. The victim’s Tesla is equipped with a camera system, and it recorded the suspect keying the driver’s side and hood of the car, then leaving in his own vehicle. The camera system captured the suspect’s face, criminal actions, and license plate.
SPD’s Criminal Intelligence Unit (CIU) was assigned to this case. Detectives identified the suspect and developed probable cause for his arrest. They asked patrol officers to help them locate the suspect.
On Sept. 30, at about 1:50 p.m., CIU detectives and officers found the suspect in Seattle and arrested him. Police booked him into the King County Jail for Malicious Mischief 2nd Degree. Detectives referred felony charges to the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
The victim’s insurance covered about half of the damages. They were left paying $2,000 in out-of-pocket expenses.
Online Crime Reporting: Crimes that can be filed online usually do not require an in-person police response. To file online, the following criteria must be met: There are no known suspects or information about the crime that can be followed up on. This is not an emergency situation. The incident occurred within Seattle city limits. Click HERE to file an Online Police Report with the Seattle Police Department.
Incident Number: 2025-227259
