A series of incidents involving swastika stickers placed on Teslas in Los Angeles County has sparked concern among residents and condemnation from local leaders. The most recent occurrence took place at a shopping center near Laurel Canyon and Ventura Boulevard in Studio City. A man wearing a distinctive bucket hat was captured on a car’s dash camera placing a swastika sticker on a parked Tesla. The car’s owner, identified only as Lana, expressed her shock and concern, wondering if she was targeted due to her Jewish heritage and her father’s status as a Holocaust survivor. However, she later speculated that the Tesla itself might have been the target.
These incidents come amid heightened scrutiny of Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk, over allegations of antisemitism. Earlier this year, Musk faced criticism for a gesture he made during a speech, which many perceived as resembling a Nazi salute. Musk responded by mocking the criticism on social media.
The swastika sticker incidents have occurred just days before the Jewish High Holidays. In response, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell have announced increased patrols and visibility around Jewish institutions. Mayor Bass stated, “Any and all forms of antisemitism are unacceptable in Los Angeles.” Chief McDonnell added that the LAPD is working closely with community leaders to maintain heightened awareness and preparedness.
Authorities have not yet made any arrests or identified a suspect, but they are urging anyone with information to contact law enforcement. The incidents have also drawn attention to a broader pattern of hate-related vandalism in the area, including recent graffiti targeting the LGBTQ+ community in Long Beach.
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