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Florida Woman Faces Felony Charge for Tesla Chewing Gum Incident
A Florida woman is facing a felony charge after allegedly affixing a substantial amount of chewing gum to a Tesla vehicle, resulting in nearly $3,000 in damages, according to authorities in the Sunshine State. The incident, characterized as vandalism against the electric vehicle, occurred in a Miami-Dade County shopping center parking lot.
Sticky Situation Leads to Criminal Mischief Charge
Yamaris Marrero was initially charged with felony criminal mischief due to the incident, which involved placing chewing gum on the Tesla. The act was reportedly captured by the vehicle’s integrated camera system on March 22 in the JC Penney parking area at Aventura Mall, as reported by Local 10 News.
Significant Damage to Electric Vehicle Door
Reports indicate the act of vandalism caused approximately $2,623.66 in damages to the electric car’s door handle mechanism. The chewing gum reportedly interfered with the functionality of the handle.
Owner Suggests Political Motivation
The Tesla owner informed Local News 10 that he believed he was targeted due to perceived political motivations connected to Tesla founder Elon Musk’s involvement with the Trump administration, citing divisions in the country regarding certain viewpoints.
Arrest at Mall Food Court
Law enforcement apprehended Marrero, 45, of Hallandale Beach, after a security guard at the mall recognized her in the food court on Thursday, according to the police report obtained by Local 10 News.
Suspect Reportedly Admits to “Chewsy Crime”
Authorities state that Marrero purportedly confessed to committing the act of placing chewing gum on the Tesla.
Bond Set for Marrero
Marrero was reportedly held in police custody with a $2,500 bond as of Friday.