Bondi, citing ‘domestic terrorism,’ announces charges for Tesla attacks

By Ali Bianco | 03/20/2025 04:11 PM EDT

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has faced a backlash for DOGE’s moves to cut down the size of the federal government.

People protest outside of a Tesla dealership.

People participate in a "Tesla Takedown" protest against Elon Musk outside of a Tesla dealership in Irvine, California, on March 1. Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the Department of Justice is charging three people for allegedly destroying Tesla cars or properties.

The charges come as Tesla has faced widespread protests and criticism in the last few weeks, tied to its CEO, Elon Musk, and the so-called Department of Government Efficiency’s moves to remake the federal government.

“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,” Bondi said in a press release Thursday.

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Widespread protests outside Tesla showrooms have broken out across the country to decry the moves by DOGE to ax agencies and institute mass layoffs.

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