Tesla Vandals Could Face Up to 20 Years in Prison, Says U.S. Attorney General

• Mar 21, 2025

Three Charged After Attacks on Tesla Dealerships and Charging Stations

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Thursday that three individuals accused of vandalizing Tesla properties could face prison sentences of up to 20 years. Bondi described the attacks as “domestic terrorism” in a strong statement warning others against similar actions.

The three suspects are accused of damaging Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging stations across multiple states. While there is no federal statute specifically outlawing domestic terrorism, prosecutors can seek harsher penalties if a terrorism-related motive is proven.

Tesla has been a flashpoint in recent political tensions, with critics targeting the company over CEO Elon Musk’s influence in the Trump administration. Some Tesla sites have been vandalized, set on fire, or spray-painted during protests.

Bondi echoed Musk and Trump, who have both labeled the incidents as domestic terrorism. The Justice Department also noted that some political allies of the administration have been subjected to “swatting” — dangerous hoax calls that lead to armed police raids.

Details of the Cases

While the DOJ statement didn’t name the suspects, the details align with previously reported charges:

• Lucy Nelson, 42, was arrested in Colorado after a Molotov cocktail attack and graffiti at a Tesla dealership caused damage estimated between $5,000 and $20,000. She faces charges of possessing a destructive device and malicious property destruction. She has pleaded not guilty.

• Adam Matthew Lansky, 41, is accused of throwing Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership in Salem, Oregon. He is charged with possession of a destructive device and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing in April.

• Daniel Clarke-Pounder, 24, allegedly attacked Tesla charging stations in North Charleston, South Carolina, with firebombs and spray-painted graffiti. He has been charged with arson.

In her statement, Bondi said: “The days of committing crimes without consequence have ended. Let this be a warning: if you join this wave of domestic terrorism against Tesla properties, the Department of Justice will put you behind bars.”

If convicted, the suspects face between five and 20 years in prison.