Federal authorities have filed criminal charges against three individuals accused of attacking Tesla properties in multiple states.
The suspects are facing prison sentences ranging from five to twenty years if convicted.
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the charges, stressing that those who target Tesla through acts of destruction will face strict legal action. The Justice Department classified the incidents as domestic terrorism and vowed to hold the accused accountable.
The attacks involved Molotov cocktails, which were used to damage Tesla dealerships and charging stations. In Salem, Oregon, one suspect allegedly threw eight firebombs at a dealership while armed with an AR-15 rifle. Another individual attempted to set Tesla vehicles on fire in Loveland, Colorado. A third suspect reportedly vandalized a wall near Tesla charging stations with anti-Trump messages before igniting it with explosives.
The incidents have raised concerns about politically motivated violence and threats against high-profile businesses. Officials are investigating possible motives, including whether the suspects were targeting Tesla due to its connection to Elon Musk or political reasons.
The federal case against the attackers is expected to move forward quickly, with prosecutors seeking the maximum penalties allowed under the law. Authorities have warned that similar actions against companies or individuals will not be tolerated.