In an unexpected turn of events, a Missouri teen accused of launching a Molotov cocktail at a Tesla dealership, causing damage to property, has been granted home confinement ahead of trial. The decision, handed down by newly appointed Judge Jessica Hedges, has sparked a debate over defendant's rights and public safety.
The incident took place when the teen, identified as McIntire, allegedly targeted a Tesla dealership with a destructive device, resulting in significant damage to two Cybertrucks. Although there were no injuries, federal authorities have charged McIntire with unlawful possession of an unregistered destructive device and malicious damage by fire to property used in interstate commerce.
Despite strong objections from federal prosecutors, Judge Hedges ruled on April 24 for McIntire’s release into the custody of his parents, as reported by the New York Post. The court’s decision is contingent on strict home confinement and electronic monitoring while McIntire awaits trial.
Court documents reveal that the teen has been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, and depression. The defense attorneys argued that incarceration would disrupt McIntire's "serious and ongoing" medical treatment, including "gender-affirming" services initiated in March. They stressed the importance of McIntire being with his parents, who are familiar with his medical and specific needs.
Federal prosecutors from the Western District of Missouri argued against McIntire’s release, pointing to the severity of the crime and the increasing rate of Tesla-related vandalism and arson. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has described such attacks as acts of domestic terrorism and has warned of severe consequences.
“Let me be extremely clear to anyone who still wants to firebomb a Tesla property: you will not evade us,” she stated in a press release, as cited by The Post Millennial. “You will be arrested. You will be prosecuted. You will spend decades behind bars. It is not worth it.”
Critics of Judge Hedges' decision argue that it sends a concerning message, given the federal government’s stance on threats to infrastructure. Prosecutors believe the Tesla attack meets the criteria for heightened concern and that McIntire should be detained accordingly.
Nonetheless, Judge Hedges emphasized McIntire's lack of prior criminal record and low risk of flight in her decision. The case continues to unfold, with McIntire scheduled for another federal court appearance on Thursday.
The incident is part of a larger pattern of politically motivated vandalism against large corporations, with Tesla properties becoming a symbol for protest. Federal authorities are stepping up efforts to identify and prosecute individuals involved in such attacks.