The FBI has established a task force to investigate the wave of vandalism and arson incidents targeting Tesla vehicles and charging stations.
The big picture: The task force, consisting of 10 members, was launched as a joint effort between the FBI’s counterterrorism division and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
- The FBI has received reports of 48 incidents involving Tesla this month, with at least seven cases currently under investigation.
- FBI Director, Kash Patel, characterized the attacks on Tesla as acts of violence, vandalism, and domestic terrorism that will be pursued with the full force of the law.
- Ben Williamson, the FBI’s assistant director of public affairs, confirmed the launch of the task force and emphasized a coordinated effort to crack down on violent Tesla attacks.
- Patel labeled the attacks on Tesla as domestic terrorism, pledging that the perpetrators will be pursued, caught, and brought to justice.
Driving the news: The violent protests targeting Tesla showrooms and charging stations have raised concerns about escalating political tensions following Elon Musk’s efforts to reduce federal bureaucracy.
- Elon Musk faces backlash over his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency, resulting in mass layoffs at federal agencies and cuts to government programs.
