President Donald Trump proposed a bold solution for handling the individuals convicted in the recent wave of Tesla arson attacks, suggesting they serve their prison sentences in El Salvador’s high-security facilities. The remark comes amid ongoing investigations into coordinated attacks on Tesla dealerships and vehicles across multiple states, which authorities suspect were driven by anti-capitalist motives.
Speaking to reporters, Trump described El Salvador’s prisons as the perfect place for what he called “domestic terrorists,” praising the country’s mega-prison system known for housing some of the region’s most dangerous gang members. He argued that transferring these offenders would not only relieve the burden on American taxpayers but also serve as a powerful deterrent to others considering similar acts of violence.
El Salvador’s prisons, infamous for their harsh conditions and strict security, have been spotlighted in recent months as President Nayib Bukele’s government intensified its crackdown on gang activity. Trump highlighted the “lovely conditions” of these facilities, asserting that the arsonists would think twice before committing further crimes if they faced the reality of serving time there.
The proposal comes as federal prosecutors continue to pursue charges against the suspects, with the Department of Justice signaling a possible domestic terrorism classification for the crimes. While legal experts have raised questions about the logistics and international agreements needed for such a transfer, the suggestion aligns with Trump’s tough stance on crime and punishment.
No official decision has been made, but the idea has sparked debate over alternative methods of incarceration for high-profile cases involving politically motivated violence.