Justice Department charges three individuals in a nationwide crackdown against Tesla arson attacks, labeling the acts as “domestic terrorism” amid growing anti-Musk sentiment.
Key Takeaways
- Attorney General Pam Bondi has announced charges against three individuals accused of attacking Tesla properties with Molotov cocktails in Oregon, Colorado, and South Carolina.
- The attacks are linked to protests against Elon Musk’s role in the Trump administration and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) efforts to restructure federal government.
- Suspects face penalties ranging from a mandatory minimum of five years to up to 20 years in prison for what officials are calling “domestic terrorism.”
- The FBI and Department of Homeland Security have launched investigations into the increasingly violent anti-Tesla movement across the country.
DOJ Cracks Down on Tesla Arson Attacks
Attorney General Pam Bondi has taken decisive action against a growing wave of violence targeting Tesla vehicles and facilities across America. The Department of Justice announced charges against three individuals allegedly responsible for destroying Tesla properties in separate incidents spanning multiple states. The charges stem from attacks involving Molotov cocktails and vandalism targeting Tesla dealerships, vehicles, and charging stations in Oregon, Colorado, and South Carolina. These incidents mark an alarming escalation in protests against Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s involvement with the Trump administration.
Bondi delivered a stern warning to those considering similar acts of destruction, “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 Bondi. The DOJ did not release the names of those charged but provided details of the incidents, which involved severe property damage and potential risk to human life. The most concerning case involved a suspect arrested in Salem, Oregon, who was found with a suppressed AR-15 rifle after allegedly throwing Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership.
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
Political Motivations Behind the Violence
The attacks appear to represent a shift in focus among some leftist activists, who have redirected their opposition from President Trump himself toward Elon Musk and his business interests. This change corresponds with Musk’s appointment as a senior adviser to the administration and his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which aims to restructure federal government operations and eliminate wasteful spending. The reform efforts have reportedly caused significant concern among Democrats and government employees whose positions may be affected.
The #TeslaTakedown movement has grown substantially in recent months, with protests at showrooms nationwide. While many demonstrations have remained peaceful, authorities have noted a troubling increase in vandalism and violence targeting the electric vehicle manufacturer. The association between Tesla and the Trump administration has reportedly impacted the company’s sales and stock performance, creating additional pressure on Musk’s business interests. This economic impact appears to have fueled more aggressive opposition rather than deterring it.
Severe Legal Consequences Await Perpetrators
The White House has taken a strong stance against the violence, with spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stating that President Trump “will ensure that the harshest penalties are pursued for those who are engaging in this vicious violence.” Each defendant faces serious charges with penalties ranging from a minimum of five years to up to 20 years in federal prison. The administration’s characterization of these attacks as “domestic terrorism” signals the severity with which law enforcement is approaching these cases.
Beyond the three individuals already charged, federal authorities continue to investigate additional incidents across the country. The FBI has expanded its investigation to include related swatting incidents targeting Tesla facilities. Musk himself has described the protesters as “deranged” and thanked law enforcement for their swift response. Security measures at Tesla locations nationwide have been increased, and federal officials have warned that anyone participating in similar acts will face the full force of federal prosecution.
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
