Three people have been charged in connection with arson incidents at Tesla car dealerships and charging stations in the US. The individuals face between five and 20 years in prison if convicted.
According to the Justice Department, Lucy Grace Nelson, 42, Adam Matthew Lansky, 41, and Daniel Clarke-Pounder, 24, are accused of using incendiary devices to set fire to Tesla vehicles or charging stations. Prosecutors announced their arrests in all three cases earlier this year.
Tesla has become a target for activists opposed to President Trump’s agenda and Elon Musk’s role in it. The company is facing protests and demonstrations, with some protesters selling their Teslas and the company’s stock in response. Trump recently labeled any violence against Tesla dealerships as domestic terrorism, stating that those responsible will “go through hell.”
The three defendants are charged with crimes such as possession of a destructive device and malicious destruction of property. They were arrested after police found evidence of incendiary devices at their locations. The case is being investigated by the Justice Department.
Nelson was released on bond after pleading not guilty to the charges, while Lansky remains detained awaiting trial. Clarke-Pounder was also released on $10,000 bond after entering a plea.
The arson incidents have sparked concerns about domestic terrorism and the use of violence against businesses with opposing views. The case is being closely watched by law enforcement and the public, who are eager to see how it will unfold.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-attorney-general-says-alleged-arsonists-targeting-tesla-face-charges-2025-03-20