Attorney General Pam Bondi has announced severe charges against three individuals linked to firebombing and vandalizing Tesla properties, signaling the Biden administration’s aggressive stance against what it calls “domestic terrorism” targeting Elon Musk’s empire.
Key Takeaways
- Three individuals face federal charges for destroying Tesla properties across Oregon, Colorado, and South Carolina, with penalties ranging from 5 to 20 years in prison.
- Attorney General Pam Bondi has labeled these acts as “domestic terrorism,” warning that the DOJ will pursue maximum penalties against perpetrators.
- The attacks appear to represent a shift in focus from critics of Donald Trump to targeting Elon Musk, particularly due to his role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
- One suspect was arrested with a suppressed AR-15 rifle after throwing Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership, highlighting the escalating violence.
- The #TeslaTakedown movement has negatively impacted Tesla’s sales and stock performance as the company becomes increasingly associated with the Trump administration.
Federal Crackdown on Tesla Property Attacks
The Department of Justice has announced federal charges against three individuals who allegedly destroyed Tesla cars, dealerships, and charging stations across multiple states. Attorney General Pam Bondi did not release the names of those charged but detailed the incidents which involved the use of Molotov cocktails and other destructive measures in Oregon, Colorado, and South Carolina. “Let this be a warning, if you join this wave of domestic terrorism against Tesla properties, the Department of Justice will put you behind bars” declared Pam Bondi. The accused individuals now face severe penalties that could result in mandatory minimum sentences of five years, with potential maximum sentences reaching up to 20 years in federal prison.
In Salem, Oregon, authorities arrested an individual who allegedly threw Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership while in possession of a suppressed AR-15 rifle. Another suspect was apprehended in Loveland, Colorado, for attempting to set Tesla vehicles on fire. The third individual was taken into custody in Charleston, South Carolina, after reportedly writing anti-Trump messages and setting fire to Tesla charging stations. The FBI and Department of Homeland Security have prioritized these investigations, treating them as serious threats to public safety.
Today, Pam Bondi announced charges against three individuals responsible for the horrific destruction of Tesla properties. Let’s hope they can get to the billionaires who
Paid for it as well! pic.twitter.com/7aIh2F5SDj— 🌹🦋🇺🇸Michele🇺🇸🦋🌹 (@MAJMO50) March 20, 2025
From Anti-Trump to Anti-Musk: A Shifting Focus
The attacks on Tesla properties represent what appears to be a significant shift in the focus of some left-leaning activists. Where criticism and protests were previously directed primarily at President Donald Trump, attention has now expanded to include Elon Musk, largely due to his close alliance with the administration and his role leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This government restructuring initiative has raised concerns among Democrats as it uncovers and targets what the administration describes as wasteful spending in federal agencies.
While protests against Tesla have been occurring nationwide and have largely remained peaceful, there has been a troubling increase in vandalism and destructive actions against Tesla vehicles and facilities. The #TeslaTakedown movement has gained traction online, with participants explicitly targeting Musk’s brand. This movement has been strongly denounced by Trump and his allies, who view it as an attack not just on a private business but on the administration’s efforts to reform government.
Economic and Security Implications
Musk’s role as a senior adviser to the administration has reportedly had negative impacts on Tesla’s sales and stock performance, creating a challenging business environment for the electric vehicle manufacturer. The FBI is currently investigating not only direct attacks on Tesla vehicles and dealerships but also related “swatting” incidents targeting Tesla executives and facilities. These false emergency calls are designed to provoke large-scale police responses and create disruption and danger.
President Trump has personally condemned the violence against Tesla properties, with White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stating that the president “will ensure that the harshest penalties are pursued for those who are engaging in this vicious violence.” The swift and severe response from law enforcement, including the potential for lengthy federal prison sentences, is intended to serve as a deterrent against future acts of vandalism and destruction targeting Tesla or other businesses associated with the administration.
Sources:
Bondi, citing ‘domestic terrorism,’ announces charges for Tesla attacks
Three charged in arson attacks on Tesla properties
New: AG Bondi Announces ‘Severe Charges’ in Tesla Arson Cases
