A man caught keying a Tesla at a Costco in San Jose has been arrested and charged with felony vandalism after security footage exposed him in the act. The suspect, wearing a U.S.A. jacket, scratched the car before being confronted by witnesses.

San Jose Police Chief Paul Joseph confirmed the arrest, calling the attack a “senseless crime” and warning that political disagreements do not excuse illegal actions. Mayor Matt Mahan echoed the sentiment, saying, “If this crime was politically motivated, our residents can’t be held accountable for something Elon Musk is doing 3,000 miles away.”

The man that was caught on camera keying a Tesla at a Costco parking lot in San Jose last Friday, has been arrested for Felony Vandalism.
A FV conviction for damage in excess of $400. is a sentence of 16 months to 3 years in a State prison, “based on circumstances.” pic.twitter.com/4xFO8LlDN4

— 🇺🇸ProudArmyBrat (@leslibless) March 18, 2025

The vandalism is part of a broader trend of attacks against Tesla vehicles and properties. In Seattle, four Cybertrucks were set on fire while gunshots were reported at a dealership in Oregon. In San Francisco, activists have encouraged Tesla owners to sell their vehicles with posters labeling them “swasticars.”

The internet did its thing. The guy caught on camera keying a Tesla was found within a couple of days of the video being posted on X and confronted. He was wearing the same jacket. His license plate is documented for the cops to see. The insurance company has someone to send the… pic.twitter.com/xdT0JnuuqS

— Midnight (@Nocte_Insanire) March 18, 2025

Musk, whose recent cost-cutting measures under the Trump administration have angered the left, acknowledged the arrest with an American flag emoji on social media. Attorney General Pam Bondi has pledged to prosecute individuals targeting Tesla owners, warning that politically motivated crimes will not be tolerated.

The attack on Tesla vehicles reflects deeper divisions as Musk’s company becomes increasingly associated with conservative policies. While once championed for leading the electric vehicle revolution, Tesla and its CEO now find themselves at the center of political battles.