The Vancouver Police Department will deploy more officers this weekend to prepare for the expected Telsa protests around the city.
In a release, VPD Constable Tania Visintin says there has been a “dramatic increase” in crimes that have targeted Tesla vehicles.
“While everyone is entitled to express themselves lawfully and peacefully, nobody has the right to use violence, damage property, or intimidate others,” Visintin said.
“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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The VPD will be deploying 130 additional officers this weekend, “including members of its specially-trained Public Safety Unit to maintain order.”
“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.”
Visintin said that the force has been investigating 28 separate incidents since Jan. 20 that appear to have been sparked by Elon Musk’s affiliation with the Trump administration.
The Vancouver Police Department has already made some arrests concerning the Tesla-related crimes.
“Nineteen of the 28 incidents have occurred at dealerships and charging stations.”
Some instances of crimes targeting Tesla vehicles include the use of hateful words and symbols that have been spray-painted on buildings. Eggs have also been thrown at cars, and windshields have been smashed. Private vehicles have also been targeted.
The VPD release states there have been “nine mischiefs against private vehicles since January with opposition to U.S. politics.”
In those incidents, wipers have been damaged, rocks and liquids have been thrown at cars, and racist symbols were written on some of the vehicles.
Tesla vehicles have been targeted across North America in response to specific actions from Musk in the United States. It even impacted Tesla at the Vancouver International Auto Show, as Tesla vehicles were axed from the event.