TRENTON, NJ – New Jersey might be a state that is relaxed on property crimes, but would-be Tesla protesters should know that the federal government has taken over when it comes to political crimes against Tesla and Tesla owners.
While spraypainting a swastika on a car might get you a slap on the wrist in New Jersey courts, your case can now be taken over by the federal government, and the Department of Justice means business.
No longer just a property crime, attacking people or property because of their political affiliation could land you in a federal courtroom on federal hate crime and domestic terrorism charges.
Key Points
- DOJ will prosecute Tesla-related attacks as domestic terrorism under existing federal laws.
- The move follows violent incidents at Tesla locations in at least nine states.
- Critics raise concerns over potential overreach and impact on free speech.
Legal shift targets violent acts against Tesla
At a press conference at the Department of Justice, Bondi stated the campaign of destruction was no longer viewed as isolated vandalism, but as a “coordinated effort to intimidate and destroy.” Bondi cited a March 7 arson attempt at a Tesla dealership in Loveland, Colorado, where suspect Cooper Jo Frederick now faces up to 20 years in federal prison under terrorism-related statutes.
“The wave of violence against Tesla properties is nothing short of domestic terrorism,” Bondi said. “These are not mere acts of mischief—they are deliberate, coordinated efforts.”
Bondi clarified the legal framework would rely on existing federal charges like arson and threats to public safety, which carry mandatory minimum sentences in many cases. The DOJ’s approach signals a hardline response to what officials view as escalating criminal conduct targeting a major U.S. company.
FBI task force investigating anti-Tesla campaign
The decision comes weeks after the FBI formed a dedicated task force to probe the nationwide uptick in anti-Tesla incidents, which have spanned at least nine states. While federal authorities have not confirmed a coordinated campaign, Bondi said investigations into potential organizers and financial backers are underway.
“We’re looking at everything,” she said. “No one involved will escape accountability.”
Tesla CEO Elon Musk responded on X, formerly Twitter, calling the violence “insane and evil,” and thanked Bondi for taking action. “Tesla just makes electric cars—there’s no justification for this level of violence,” he wrote. Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO), who introduced a House resolution condemning the attacks, called it a “long-overdue crackdown on lawlessness.”
Civil rights advocates warn of government overreach
Not all responses have been supportive. Legal experts and civil liberties groups voiced concern that the new classification could blur the line between violent crime and constitutionally protected protest. “The line between vandalism and terrorism is a fine one,” said Sarah Coleman, a Georgetown constitutional law professor. “The Justice Department must ensure this doesn’t become a tool to silence dissent.”
Bondi dismissed those claims, stating the DOJ’s focus is solely on violent acts that endanger public safety. “We’re not targeting people holding signs or voicing opinions,” she said. “This is about those who firebomb cars, shoot at buildings, and endanger lives. That’s where we draw the line.”
Domestic terrorism label marks escalation in corporate crime response
While there is no standalone federal charge for domestic terrorism, the new classification allows prosecutors to apply enhanced penalties under existing laws. The DOJ’s move marks a notable escalation in its approach to corporate-targeted violence, positioning Tesla-related crimes alongside politically motivated attacks on critical infrastructure and public facilities.
As investigations continue, federal officials made clear the government’s priority: any individual or group involved in attacks on Tesla will face prosecution under the nation’s harshest statutes.