On March 21, 2025, President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social about punishing people who damage Tesla property. He suggested they could serve time in El Salvador’s tough prison system.
“I look forward to watching the sick terrorist thugs get 20 year jail sentences for what they are doing to Elon Musk and Tesla,”
he wrote.
“Perhaps they could serve them in the prisons of El Salvador, which have become so recently famous for such lovely conditions!”
This comes as federal officials look into arson and vandalism targeting Tesla sites across the U.S. The attacks have sparked worries about growing tensions around the electric car company.
El Salvador’s prison connection
Trump’s comment points to the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT) in El Salvador. It’s a high-security prison known for harsh conditions. Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele built it to lock up gang members and violent criminals.
He’s used it to push his hardline stance on crime. The prison got attention recently when the Trump administration sent alleged Venezuelan gang members there. This showed closer ties between the U.S. and El Salvador on security. Suggesting American convicts go to CECOT is a new angle for Trump. It’s not clear if he’s serious or just making a point.
Watch: Alleged Venezuelan gang members deported by Trump land at El Salvador’s mega-prison
WATCH: Venezuelan gang members deported by Trump arrive at mega-prison in El Salvador pic.twitter.com/roHGOuOePh
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) March 16, 2025
Tesla attacks under investigation
The president’s words follow a series of incidents hitting Tesla locations. Some involved Molotov cocktails and other destructive acts. The FBI and Justice Department are digging into who’s behind them and why.
Officials have called some of these possible domestic terrorism. Elon Musk’s Tesla has faced pushback over worker treatment, environmental issues, and his political views. But no solid link to the attacks has come out yet from authorities.
Legal hurdles in the way
Experts say Trump’s idea might not work under current law. The First Step Act from 2018 says federal prisoners should stay within 500 miles of home. That helps with family visits and rehab efforts. Sending Americans convicted here to a foreign prison could break that rule. It might also clash with constitutional rights on fair process and extradition. Civil rights groups warn this could lead to shipping out punishment. That might weaken U.S. legal standards.
Trump and Musk’s ties
Trump’s bond with Elon Musk could explain his strong reaction. He often praises Musk for boosting American tech and business. The attacks on Tesla seem to hit close to home for him. The White House hasn’t said if this is a real plan or just tough talk on crime.
What’s next
For now, Trump’s suggestion is just stirring up discussion. It’s fueling arguments over justice, global cooperation, and Tesla’s place in America. As the probes into the vandalism go on, people are watching. Will the administration act on this social media idea? Or will it drop off like many others?
You may also like to read:
- Seattle-Area Mom Harassed by Camouflaged Man Over Tesla »
- Elon Musk Plans to Sue Ex-Rep. Jamaal Over CNN Comments »
- DOJ Issues Warning to Tesla Attackers: 5-20 Years in Prison »
We’ve launched an official Tesla Owners Online Forum. Join early and claim your "Founding Fuel" badge.
