President Trump has put Tesla vandals on notice, calling for severe punishment for those involved in the surge of destruction across the country. Reports of vandalism on Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging stations prompted Trump to issue a stark warning via social media, threatening prison sentences of up to twenty years for perpetrators and funders alike. Trump even suggested the possibility of sending guilty parties to prison in El Salvador, referencing a controversial move to deport alleged gang members to the country.
The recent attacks on Tesla have spread to various cities, including Seattle, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Charleston, and others. These incidents have escalated since Tesla CEO Elon Musk joined the Department of Government Efficiency under the Trump administration. The FBI has reported numerous incidents targeting Teslas in at least nine states since the beginning of the year. These attacks have included arson, gunfire, and graffiti, mainly occurring at night and conducted by lone offenders using basic tactics like makeshift incendiary devices and firearms.
Rise in Tesla Vandalism Across the USA
In a bold public announcement, the FBI urged vigilance among the public, warning of potential threats to Tesla dealerships. Trump himself labeled the suspects behind the vandalism as “terrorists,” drawing comparisons to the Capitol riots on January 6. Amidst these incidents, three individuals have been charged for their alleged roles in attacks on Tesla properties in Oregon, Colorado, and South Carolina, facing charges related to destructive devices, malicious destruction of property, and arson.
Attorney General Pam Bondi has spoken out against the Tesla vandalisms, promising that those involved will face the full force of the law. She warned of severe consequences for anyone participating in these acts of domestic terrorism, emphasizing that the Department of Justice will not tolerate such crimes. As Tesla continues to be targeted across the nation, the New York City Police Department is seeking assistance in identifying suspects who defaced a Cyber Truck with a swastika, an incident now under investigation by the NYPD’s Hate Crime Task Force.
Impact on Tesla and Ongoing Investigations
In addition to the vandalism, Tesla has faced significant financial challenges, with stocks plummeting nearly 48% this year. Recent weeks have seen four top officers at the company selling off $100 million in stock. The company’s response to these incidents remains a point of interest, as Tesla’s spokesperson has yet to comment on the situation. Meanwhile, authorities are investigating a suspicious fire at a Tesla charging station in Fargo, North Dakota, believed to have been deliberately set. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the damage caused.
Throughout these turbulent times, Elon Musk, the visionary behind Tesla, has reposted reactions to Trump’s statements, showcasing the impact of these events on the company and its leadership. As the situation unfolds, concerns about the safety and security of Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging stations continue to mount. The public remains on high alert, with law enforcement agencies actively pursuing leads to identify and apprehend those responsible for these destructive acts. Tesla’s future hangs in the balance as it navigates these challenges and seeks to protect its assets in the face of escalating vandalism and financial uncertainty.
