US Justice Department Asserts Tesla Vandalism as Potential Domestic Terrorism
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced on Thursday that three individuals accused of vandalism targeting Tesla, Elon Musk’s electric vehicle firm, could receive prison sentences of up to 20 years.
Bondi characterized the damage inflicted upon Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging facilities as constituting domestic terrorism.
Law enforcement had previously disclosed the arrests and charges against the three suspects.
Tesla dealerships across the nation have reportedly become targets in recent protests and acts of vandalism, including arson, reportedly linked to Musk’s influence within the prior presidential administration.
While no specific federal statute explicitly addresses domestic terrorism, prosecutors are able to seek extended prison terms if convicted offenders are found to have terror-related motives.
Both former President Trump and Musk have also labeled these incidents as domestic terrorism. Furthermore, supporters of the previous administration have allegedly been subjected to “swatting” incidents – false emergency calls leading to armed police raids at their residences.
A Justice Department statement released Thursday refrained from naming the suspects involved in the Tesla vandalism. However, details of the three cases outlined in the press release correspond with previously reported arrests and charges.
Suspects and Charges in Tesla Vandalism Cases
The suspects include:
- Lucy Nelson, 42: Charged with possession of a destructive device and malicious property damage. Nelson was apprehended near a Tesla dealership in Colorado.
According to a criminal complaint, this dealership was attacked with a Molotov cocktail and graffiti, resulting in damages estimated between $5,000 and $20,000. Nelson has entered a plea of not guilty.
- Adam Matthew Lansky, 41: Charged with possession of a destructive device after Molotov cocktails were hurled at a Tesla dealership in Salem, Oregon. Lansky has not yet entered a plea and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing in April.
- Daniel Clarke-Pounder, 24: Charged with arson for purportedly throwing Molotov cocktails at Tesla charging stations in North Charleston, South Carolina, and vandalizing the parking area with spray paint.
Attorney General’s Strong Warning
In her statement, Attorney General Bondi asserted, “The era of committing crimes without consequences is over.”
Bondi further warned, “Let this serve as a clear message: those who participate in this surge of domestic terrorism targeting Tesla properties will be prosecuted and incarcerated by the Department of Justice.”
The Attorney General indicated that if convicted, the three suspects could face prison sentences ranging from five to 20 years.
The BBC has attempted to contact legal representatives for the three defendants.