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Tesla Cybertruck Security Camera Captures Vandals Defacing Vehicle in Brooklyn Hate Crime
New York City authorities are investigating an incident of vandalism as a potential hate crime after security cameras on a Tesla Cybertruck recorded individuals inscribing anti-Semitic symbols onto the vehicle. The incident, which involved the carving of the word “Nazis” and a swastika onto the electric vehicle, occurred in Brooklyn around 1 a.m.
Vandals Caught on Camera, Police Investigate
According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), two male suspects were captured in security footage defacing the Cybertruck. The individuals, seen taking turns etching symbols onto the vehicle, fled the scene on foot and remain at large, as reported by Fox News. The NYPD has confirmed they are treating this act of vandalism as a hate crime.
Second Cybertruck Defaced in Brooklyn
This episode marks the second instance of vandalism targeting Tesla’s Cybertruck model in Brooklyn this month. Earlier, another Cybertruck was defaced with a swastika. Ben Hamo, the Jewish owner of the previously vandalized vehicle, expressed his distress to the New York Post, stating, “I feel myself burning inside.”
Broader Pattern of Tesla Vandalism Amidst Political Tensions
These attacks on Tesla vehicles are part of a wider trend of vandalism targeting the electric car brand. This wave of incidents coincides with public discourse surrounding Elon Musk’s involvement in government matters and cost-cutting measures at his companies.
Security camera footage captured the vandals inscribing ‘Nazis’ and a swastika on the Tesla Cybertruck in Brooklyn.
NYPD reports indicate the two male suspects fled on foot and are currently being sought in connection with the Tesla Cybertruck vandalism.
Political Undertones in Attacks on Electric Vehicle Brand
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has highlighted what she describes as the “irony” of the situation, suggesting a political motivation behind the vandalism. Speaking with Fox News earlier this week, Leavitt noted that Tesla, and by extension electric vehicles, were once championed by Democrats. She asserted that the recent attacks might be politically motivated, stemming from Elon Musk’s shift in political alignment towards supporting Donald Trump.
Leavitt stated, “Tesla dealerships, Tesla employees and also innocent Americans who have chosen to drive these vehicles, many of them, ironically, are likely Democrats.” She further added, “The Democrats used to be the greatest cheerleaders for electric vehicles and for Tesla, the company, until Elon Musk decided to support and vote for Donald Trump… So, the Trump derangement syndrome from the leftists is on true display with these attacks.”
Recent Arrests in Tesla Vandalism Cases
In recent developments, three individuals have been charged in connection with separate attacks targeting Tesla facilities nationwide. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced a firm stance against these actions, stating, “the days of committing crimes without consequence have ended.” She issued a stern warning, saying, “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.”
Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a warning regarding ‘domestic terrorists’ targeting Tesla properties: ‘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.’
Details of Arrested Suspects
- Adam Matthew Lansky, 41: Accused of throwing Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership in Salem, Oregon, on January 20. Reports indicate Lansky allegedly threw a “large heavy object through the dealership window” and was reportedly armed with a suppressed AR-15.
- Lucy Grace Nelson (aka Justin Thomas Nelson), 42: Taken into custody in Loveland, Colorado, on January 29 after allegedly attempting to ignite Molotov cocktails near a dealership. Prosecutors stated Nelson possessed gasoline, bottles, and wicks, purportedly for creating incendiary devices.
- Daniel Clarke-Pounder, 24: Allegedly vandalized a dealership in Charleston, South Carolina, on March 7, spray-painting anti-Trump and pro-Ukraine messages before setting fire to three charging stations.
Charges and Potential Penalties
Lansky and Nelson face charges of arson of property in interstate commerce and possession of an unregistered destructive device. Clarke-Pounder is charged with arson of property in interstate commerce. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has stated that all three suspects could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Tesla Stock Impact and Boycott Calls
Tesla’s stock value has significantly decreased this year amidst scrutiny of Elon Musk’s ties to the Trump administration. Concurrently, some customers, particularly those with liberal political views, have called for boycotts of the brand, potentially correlating with the recurring attacks on Tesla dealerships.
Image depicting two burned Teslas in a Las Vegas parking lot, site of an earlier attack.
Escalating Political Violence Concerns
Former FBI special agent Michael Tabman, speaking to Fox News, expressed concerns about escalating political violence despite Attorney General Bondi’s warnings. Tabman stated, “I do fear that more violence is on its way,” anticipating a rise in general political violence, potentially beyond Tesla-specific targets or DOGE-related issues. He added, “We’re a more divided country, hatred for the other side is boiling over… I think we are becoming a more reactionary country,” indicating a growing societal polarization and potential for politically motivated actions from all sides.