In a recent crackdown, three individuals have been apprehended in the U.S. for the "violent destruction" of Tesla properties, as revealed by Attorney General Pamela Bondi in an official statement. The accused could face prison sentences ranging from five to 20 years. Bondi highlighted that the suspects employed Molotov cocktails to ignite Tesla vehicles and charging stations across three cities.
One of the accused, armed with an AR-15 rifle, was caught after hurling about eight Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership in Salem, Oregon. Another suspect was detained in Loveland, Colorado, following an attempt to torch Tesla cars using similar explosives. This individual was later found with materials for crafting additional incendiary devices.
In Charleston, South Carolina, a third suspect allegedly scrawled "profane messages" against President Trump around Tesla charging stations before setting them ablaze with a homemade incendiary bomb. Echoing Trump’s sentiments, Bondi labeled the vandals as "terrorists" and warned that the Justice Department would penalize those joining "this wave of domestic terrorism against Tesla properties." She asserted, "The era of committing crimes without repercussions is over."
In Florida, law enforcement has issued stern warnings against potential "Tesla terrorists," branding them as "unhinged leftists." Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno stated, "Destroying property for criminal or political reasons will not be tolerated in the county."
Tesla Under Siege
Tesla, owned by Elon Musk, has been targeted by various groups in recent months. Images of burning Tesla vehicles have sparked concern within the business and political communities. U.S. President Donald Trump condemned the vandals as "terrorists," vowing that those responsible will face up to 20 years in prison.
Musk has faced backlash and calls for boycotts due to his political stances and public comments. Previously, Trump encouraged citizens to purchase Tesla vehicles to support the company amidst its ongoing challenges.
Trump praised the controversial head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) on his social platform, Truth Social, thanking him for "risking it all" for the country's benefit. He condemned the attempts to boycott Tesla by the "radical left" as "illegal and collusive," and announced his intention to buy a Tesla as a sign of confidence and support for the billionaire turned "public servant."
The company has experienced a significant drop in stock value, with shares falling by 45% this year.
Key Questions About Tesla Vandalism and Legal Consequences
What charges are the suspects facing for the Tesla vandalism?
The suspects are facing charges of "violent destruction" of Tesla properties, which could result in prison sentences ranging from five to 20 years.
How did the suspects allegedly attack Tesla properties?
The suspects reportedly used Molotov cocktails to set Tesla cars and charging stations on fire across three different cities in the U.S.
What has been the impact on Tesla following these incidents?
Tesla has seen a substantial decrease in its stock value, with shares dropping by 45% this year, amid ongoing criticism and challenges.