A Cook County judge has ordered a 26-year-old woman from Buffalo Grove to stay away from all Tesla properties after she was charged with vandalizing a local Tesla showroom.
During a court hearing on Wednesday in Rolling Meadows, Judge Ellen Mandeltort warned Erin L. White that if she violates any conditions of her release, she will be sent to jail.
White is facing charges of criminal damage to property, which is a Class 4 felony, along with a misdemeanor criminal trespass charge. The damage to the Tesla showroom is estimated to be around $9,000. If convicted, she could face up to three years in prison, though probation is also a possibility.
What Happened?
On March 14, Buffalo Grove police received a report of vandalism at the Tesla showroom on Dundee Road at around 4:08 p.m. According to Assistant Cook County State’s Attorney Kristina Lucas, a witness driving past the showroom saw a woman spray-painting political messages on the windows. Another witness, who pulled into the parking lot, recorded the incident using their car’s dashboard camera.
When police arrived, they found four cans of spray paint and a receipt from a home improvement store at the scene. White later admitted to buying the spray paint and taking responsibility for the vandalism.
Court Hearing and Restrictions
Since White does not have a prior criminal record, the judge has allowed her to remain free until her next court date on May 2. However, she must stay away from all Tesla properties and follow other court-ordered restrictions.
Judge Mandeltort made it clear that if White fails to follow the conditions of her release, she will be immediately jailed.
What’s Next?
White will return to court on May 2, where the case will continue. If convicted, she could face serious consequences, including jail time or probation.
Authorities are reminding the public that damaging property is a serious offense and can lead to legal action.
