Sheriff Richard Jones from Butler County, Ohio, warned vandals that they would be sent to jail.
Jones called the actions ‘un-American’ and stated that vandals are ‘bold until they end up in jail.’
The sheriff also revealed plans to name a street after Elon Musk.
Tesla faces waves of vandalism across the United States. The hatred for the brand is not limited to America alone, as there are reports of vehicle damage in other countries. This is a big problem not only for the brand itself but also for the authorities trying to maintain order as private property is destroyed.
This certainly concerns Sheriff Richard Jones of Butler County, Ohio. He addressed anyone thinking about demolishing a Tesla clearly and convincingly, declaring on social media that any attempts to harm a vehicle would lead to imprisonment.
‘I don’t care who you are. If you come to Butler County or live here and think you’re going to scratch or damage these Tesla trucks, you’ve made a terrible, terrible mistake,’ said Jones. He expressed his statements standing next to a Marine Corps veteran who apparently owns two Tesla vans.
It is surprising that no specific crimes were mentioned, and it is unclear if the former Marine appearing in the clip faced any consequences for owning a Tesla. However, it was clear that it was ‘un-American’ to target someone just because of a vehicle, especially if that person is a veteran. Jones particularly criticized some accused vandals, calling them ‘big fat people living in their mother’s basements and wearing their mother’s pajamas.’ He continued, saying, ‘they think they are brave until they end up in jail.’
Sheriff Jones also took the opportunity to announce plans to name a street after Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Musk is often criticized from his position as Tesla’s CEO when he manages the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), as investors constantly express their concerns. However, other government officials, including the President himself, have stepped up to support Musk, publicly backing him and Tesla.
Sheriff Jones is an outspoken supporter and is known for his signature cowboy hat and boots. He has been elected six times and often uses social media as a platform to express his views, speaking against conservative policies.