Chadd Ritenbaugh Charged in Tesla Vandalism Case

Chadd Ritenbaugh, a 55-year-old Pennsylvania man, has been charged with criminal mischief, harassment, and disorderly conduct after allegedly carving a swastika onto a Tesla vehicle in a Planet Fitness parking lot on March 24, 2025. The incident was captured by the Tesla's surveillance system, leading to Ritenbaugh's identification and arrest. Upon confrontation by the Tesla owner, Ritenbaugh apologized, stating his actions were 'misguided' and driven by his dislike for Elon Musk, claiming he used a crayon rather than a key. This case ties into broader sentiments against Tesla and Musk, with other incidents of vandalism reported, such as the placement of anti-Semitic stickers on Teslas in Chicago, prompting an apology letter from the vandal. These acts reflect a pattern of targeted hostility towards Musk and Tesla, driven by perceived impacts of Musk's political and business activities.