The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has charged three individuals in connection with a series of attacks targeting Tesla dealerships and charging stations across multiple states.
The suspects, accused of committing acts of domestic terrorism, are facing serious federal charges that could result in up to 20 years in prison.
Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a strong warning to those involved in similar attacks, stating, “The days of committing crimes without consequence have ended. 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.”
According to the DOJ, one suspect was arrested in Salem, Oregon, after allegedly throwing eight Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership, setting vehicles and part of the building on fire.
Another individual was taken into custody in Loveland, Colorado, after attempting to ignite multiple Teslas using Molotov cocktails. A third suspect was apprehended in South Carolina for setting Tesla charging stations on fire.
This individual had also spray-painted profane messages against former President Donald Trump near the targeted locations.
While the DOJ has not publicly released the names of those charged, reports suggest that one of the suspects may be Adam Matthew Lansky, 41, who was arrested in connection with the attack in Salem. Lansky is accused not only of throwing Molotov cocktails but also of firing shots at the dealership.
In Charleston, South Carolina, the suspect is believed to be Daniel Clarke-Pounder, 24, who reportedly set fire to Tesla charging stations. According to ABC4 News, Clarke-Pounder accidentally lit himself on fire during the attack and was granted bond earlier this week while appearing in federal court.
The identity of the individual involved in the Loveland, Colorado, incident remains unclear, as multiple arrests have been reported in connection with an attack on a Tesla facility in that area.
The charges come amid a rising number of attacks on Tesla properties, both in the United States and abroad. Tesla dealerships, charging stations, and even privately owned vehicles have been targeted in recent months.
Earlier this week, authorities in Berlin, Germany, reported that four Teslas were deliberately set on fire in what appears to be coordinated acts of arson. Officials are investigating whether these incidents are connected to similar attacks occurring in the U.S.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced on Wednesday evening that federal authorities are actively investigating the Tesla-related attacks. He also confirmed that law enforcement is looking into a surge of swatting incidents targeting conservative media figures, suggesting a broader pattern of politically or ideologically motivated attacks.
That same day, Attorney General Bondi reinforced the federal government’s commitment to prosecuting those involved in the attacks, vowing to treat them as acts of domestic terrorism
The three defendants charged in these cases face severe legal consequences, with potential sentences of up to 20 years in prison and a minimum of five years. However, the DOJ has yet to disclose full details regarding the specific charges each individual is facing.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement agencies remain on high alert for additional attacks against Tesla properties. Federal officials have urged the public to report any suspicious activity near Tesla dealerships or charging stations.
This story is developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.