Vancouver police say dozens of extra officers will be on hand to monitor demonstrations planned in the city this weekend against Tesla. Read More
VPD are investigating 28 acts of vandalism since Jan. 20. All appear to be targeted at owner Elon Musk whose political ties with Donald Trump and his Nazi salute have sparked outrage.
VPD are investigating 28 acts of vandalism since Jan. 20. All appear to be targeted at owner Elon Musk whose political ties with Donald Trump and his Nazi salute have sparked outrage.
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Vancouver police say they are deploying dozens of extra officers this weekend to demonstrations planned in the city against Tesla.
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It’s part of a global day of action to take down the company, and is expected to be the largest in a series of demonstrations against the Trump administration and Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
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Musk, an unelected government employee is leading a team laying off thousands of workers and cutting department budgets. He’s also come under fire for giving fascist salutes and backing up Trump’s annexation threats against Canada.
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Vancouver police spokesperson Const. Tania Visintin expressed concern Friday that the demonstrations could lead to violence and vandalism.
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“While everyone is entitled to express themselves lawfully and peacefully, nobody has the right to use violence, damage property, or intimidate others,” said Visintin in a statement Friday.
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“There are a number of protests planned this weekend against Tesla, and we’re deploying a heavy police presence to make sure these protests remain lawful.”
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Visintin said police are investigating 28 acts of politically motivated vandalism against Teslas or dealerships since Jan. 20.
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Nineteen of those have occurred at dealerships and charging stations, she added.
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They include hateful words and symbols spray-painted on buildings, eggs thrown at cars, and windshields smashed.
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That compares to zero reports of mischiefs to Tesla dealerships or charging stations in 2024.
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Investigators have also linked nine acts of mischief against private vehicles since January with opposition to U.S. politics.
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These incidents include rocks and liquid being thrown at cars, wipers being damaged, and racist symbols being written on vehicles.
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No arrests have been made.
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“We understand many people are distressed by world events and are looking for ways to vent their frustration, but damaging private property is not the answer,” said Visintin.
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“We encourage people to express themselves peacefully, lawfully, and with respect for others. Anyone who breaks the law will face arrest and charges.”
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Protests targeting Tesla properties are among more than a dozen demonstrations and special events that are expected to draw large crowds throughout the city over the weekend.
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Vancouver will deploy more than 130 additional officers, including members of its specially-trained Public Safety Unit to maintain order, said Visintin.
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