FBI task force to probe attacks on Tesla sites

Director Kash Patel said Monday that the FBI was investigating the recent spike in violence toward Tesla car dealerships and had already taken steps to crack down on the attacks. Those responsible for the attacks will be brought to justice for taking part in what Patel called domestic terrorism. Violence on Tesla properties has spiked in recent weeks, with numerous activities like arson, vandalism, and gunshots being reported. The FBI will also form a task force with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to coordinate an investigation and crackdown on the violent Tesla attacks, an FBI spokesman said Monday.

Is Patel allowed to decide what constitutes domestic terror? Attorney General Pam Bondi already labeled the violence as domestic terrorism last week. Federal attorneys as of last week had already charged several suspects for the attacks, with some facing at least five years in prison, according to a Justice Department news release. Hours after Patel’s message, the Washington, D.C. Police requested community assistance to identify suspects accused of vandalizing privately owned Teslas. 

Dig deeper: Read Elizabeth Russell’s report from last week for more background on the attacks and charges.