The FBI has launched a task force to investigate a series of attacks targeting Tesla, with federal officials labeling the incidents as “domestic terrorism.” FBI Director Kash Patel announced on Monday that the bureau had taken steps to curb the rising violence.
“The FBI has been investigating the increase in violent activity toward Tesla, and over the last few days, we have taken additional steps to crack down and coordinate our response. This is domestic terrorism. Those responsible will be pursued, caught, and brought to justice,” Patel stated in a post on X.
The FBI has been investigating the increase in violent activity toward Tesla, and over the last few days, we have taken additional steps to crack down and coordinate our response.This is domestic terrorism. Those responsible will be pursued, caught, and brought to justice. https://t.co/U4VYh8XEveFBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) March 24, 2025
The attacks have included vandalism of Tesla dealerships, vehicles, and charging stations. According to The New York Post, the FBI has received at least 48 reports this month and is actively investigating seven cases. Some acts of vandalism have involved sketching swastikas on Cybertrucks, accusing Tesla CEO Elon Musk of being a Nazi.
The surge in attacks appears linked to Musk’s leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency, which has enacted sweeping mass layoffs, including plans to cut 60,000 Department of Defense jobs and dismantle various government agencies.
President Donald Trump had responded strongly, warning on Truth Social that individuals sabotaging Tesla vehicles could face up to 20 years in prison, including those funding the attacks. “We are looking for you!” Trump wrote, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to prosecution.
Attorney General Pam Bondi also condemned the attacks, calling them “nothing short of domestic terrorism.” She revealed that the Department of Justice had already charged multiple individuals and vowed to continue identifying and prosecuting those responsible, including financial backers of the crimes.
As the investigation intensifies, authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activity related to Tesla vandalism.
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