Tesla Vandalism Suspects Face Up to 20 Years in Prison, Says US Attorney General
Three individuals accused of vandalizing Tesla properties could face up to 20 years in prison, US Attorney General Pam Bondi announced on Thursday. The attacks, which included arson and destruction of property at Tesla dealerships and charging stations, have been labeled as “domestic terrorism.”
Tesla Vandalism Cases and Charges
Prosecutors had previously announced the arrests and charges against the three suspects, whose actions were reportedly linked to protests against Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s influence over the Trump administration. While there is no specific federal law against domestic terrorism, authorities can push for longer sentences when crimes have terrorism-related motives.
The Department of Justice did not disclose the suspects’ names, but details in the announcement align with prior reports of arrests.
Suspects and Allegations
- Lucy Nelson, 42 – Charged with possession of a destructive device and malicious destruction of property. She was allegedly spotted near a Tesla dealership in Colorado that had been targeted with Molotov cocktails and graffiti. The damages ranged from $5,000 to $20,000. Nelson has pleaded not guilty.
- Adam Matthew Lansky, 41 – Charged with possession of a destructive device in connection with Molotov cocktail attacks on a Tesla dealership in Salem, Oregon. He has yet to enter a plea and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing in April.
- Daniel Clarke-Pounder, 24 – Charged with arson after allegedly attacking Tesla charging stations in North Charleston, South Carolina. He is accused of throwing Molotov cocktails and spray-painting the car park.
Authorities Crack Down on Attacks
Bondi emphasized the seriousness of these crimes, 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.”
Both Elon Musk and former President Donald Trump have also condemned the attacks, classifying them as acts of domestic terrorism. Additionally, reports indicate that supporters of the administration have been subjected to “swatting”—hoax emergency calls that lead to armed police raids.
Potential Sentences for Tesla Vandals
If convicted, the three suspects face between five and 20 years in prison. As Tesla continues to expand its footprint across the U.S., authorities are tightening security measures to prevent further incidents of vandalism and arson.
This high-profile case highlights the intersection of politics, business, and criminal justice, with Tesla remaining at the center of controversy due to Musk’s political influence.