Tesla Vandalism: Suspects Could Face Up to 20 Years in Prison, Warns AG

Three suspects accused of vandalizing Tesla properties now face substantial prison sentences amid accusations of domestic terrorism linked to protests against the company.

In a striking development, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that three individuals charged with vandalizing Tesla properties may be sentenced to as much as 20 years in prison. The charges stem from a series of violent protests and acts of vandalism against the electric vehicle manufacturer, which Bondi characterized as domestic terrorism.

Details released reveal that Tesla dealerships have recently been targeted for arson and other forms of destruction, much of it driven by dissatisfaction with Elon Musk's connections to the Trump administration. In a timely response, Bondi's remarks underline the Justice Department's determination to address these violent actions.

The three suspects, whose identities have been aligned with previously announced charges, include Lucy Nelson, 42, accused of utilizing destructive devices and committing property damage to a dealership in Colorado with estimated losses ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. Meanwhile, Adam Matthew Lansky, 41, is facing charges in Oregon for launching Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership, and is yet to plead. Lastly, 24-year-old Daniel Clarke-Pounder faces arson charges linked to attacks against Tesla charging stations in South Carolina.

Bondi warned that such criminal behavior would not go unpunished: "The days of committing crimes without consequence have ended." If convicted, the suspects are anticipated to receive sentences spanning from five to twenty years. The Justice Department's firm stance is a clear adaptation to the ongoing threat of violent protests, as they step in to safeguard Tesla's operations amid rising tensions surrounding its high-profile owner.