In a recent social media post, President Donald Trump directed a stern warning to individuals engaging in vandalism against Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging stations. As incidents of destruction surge across the United States, Trump emphasized the potential legal consequences for those caught participating in such acts. Early Friday morning, he declared, "People that get caught sabotaging Teslas will stand a very good chance of going to jail for up to twenty years, and that includes funders. WE ARE LOOKING FOR YOU!!!"
Trump further suggested that individuals found guilty of Tesla-related crimes could face imprisonment in El Salvador. This remark referred to the Trump administration's contentious deportation of alleged gang members to the country, a move facilitated by the invocation of the Alien Enemies Act. Even though a court order temporarily blocked this authority, Trump expressed his anticipation of watching those responsible for the vandalism receive lengthy prison sentences. "I look forward to watching the sick terrorist thugs get 20-year jail sentences for what they are doing to Elon Musk and Tesla," he stated.
The surge in vandalism against Tesla properties has been alarming, with recent incidents reported in cities such as Seattle, Kansas City, Las Vegas, and Charleston. These attacks have intensified since Tesla CEO Elon Musk took on a role within the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE. During a press briefing at the White House, Trump labeled the vandalism suspects as "terrorists" and controversially claimed that the destruction of Tesla vehicles was more severe than the events that transpired during the January 6 Capitol riots.
Law enforcement has begun to take action, with three individuals facing charges for their alleged involvement in recent attacks on Tesla properties. Adam Lansky from Salem, Oregon was charged with illegally possessing an unregistered destructive device, while Lucy Grace Nelson from Loveland, Colorado faces charges of malicious destruction of property. Daniel Clarke-Pounder from North Charleston, South Carolina has been charged with arson. Although Lansky and Clarke-Pounder have yet to enter pleas, Nelson pleaded not guilty.
Attorney General Pam Bondi has also condemned the recent vandalism incidents, asserting that the suspects will face severe legal repercussions for allegedly using Molotov cocktails to damage Tesla vehicles and charging stations. "The days of committing crimes without consequence have ended," Bondi stated. She added, "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."
The situation continues to escalate, with new incidents reported, including a suspicious fire at Tesla charging stations in Fargo, North Dakota. Fire crews discovered a small fire in wood chips near the chargers, and investigators are looking into the cause. While it's still unclear if the fire caused any damage to the charging equipment, authorities are treating the incident with caution.
In addition to these challenges, Tesla's stock has plunged nearly 48% this year. In recent weeks, four top executives at the company have sold off approximately $100 million in stock, according to filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In response to Trump's comments, Musk, who also owns X, shared reactions indicating that "especially the funders should be held responsible for these attacks." A spokesperson for Tesla has yet to respond to requests for comment from ABC News.
