Tesla Owner Files $1 Million Lawsuit After Capturing Suspected Keying Incident on Video | Carscoops

      A Model X owner aims to set an example by pursuing legal action against an individual he alleges vandalized his car without cause.

      The owner of a Tesla in Dallas captured the act of keying on video, thanks to the vehicle's sentry camera, which ultimately led to the suspect's arrest. He is now seeking $1 million in damages to deter others from similar acts of vandalism.

      Acts of violence and vandalism directed at Tesla vehicles and their owners are at an all-time high. Although some criticism of Elon Musk might be warranted, Tesla owners are now facing the backlash stemming from the CEO's political involvement. This is the situation for Jeff Nguyen, a Model X owner who experienced damage to his car and utilized his Tesla's "Sentry Mode" security feature to identify the perpetrator. He is now taking legal action against the individual for a substantial sum.

      Nguyen stated, “I bought it just as an electric car. It’s enjoyable to drive and has nothing to do with politics.” His car's camera recorded the vandalism, and he shared the footage online, which led to the arrest of a suspect.

      For those unfamiliar with Tesla's Sentry Mode, it is an integrated security feature that activates the car's external cameras when potential threats are detected. This turns the Tesla into a constant surveillance system, recording activity around the vehicle while parked. In Nguyen's case, this system documented the keying incident, providing crucial evidence that allowed law enforcement to swiftly identify and apprehend the suspect.

      Nguyen's experience reflects a disturbing trend of political hostility intersecting with vandalism. During an interview with CBS, he expressed disbelief that the vandalism had political implications.

      “It’s unbelievable,” he remarked. “I received a post showing Donald Trump Jr. retweeting it. It’s astonishing that this has turned into a political issue.” Rafael Hernandez was arrested by officers. Majed Nachawati, a managing partner at the Nachawati Legal Group representing Nguyen, asserts that there is justification for the $1 million damage claim.

      “We cannot permit individuals to react based on their perceived political affiliations and take matters into their own hands,” Nachawati stated. “What does that indicate about our society? Regardless of political stance, anyone viewing the video and the events would agree that deterrence is the key element in this case.”

      This situation arises at a time when the U.S. government has categorized violent assaults on Tesla dealerships, charging stations, and owner vehicles as acts of domestic terrorism. The FBI has established a task force to investigate and take action against these increasingly bold attacks.

      If Nguyen successfully obtains a seven-figure settlement for the vandalism, it could create a significant precedent for future vandalism cases. It appears Tesla owners might gain additional protection and stronger legal support moving ahead.