A 55-year-old man accused of vandalizing a Tesla by carving a swastika into it was confronted after the incident—and bizarrely tried to offer the victim free car service as compensation.
The suspect, identified as Chadd Ritenbaugh, was caught on Tesla’s security cameras outside a Planet Fitness in Bucks County, unaware that the vehicle was recording him the entire time.
Authorities say Ritenbaugh, who manages a car service company, was seen sneaking around the parked Tesla before allegedly etching the Nazi symbol onto the vehicle. After being called out, he reportedly attempted to smooth things over by offering free service through his company.
Ritenbaugh has since been charged with:
- Misdemeanor criminal mischief
- Harassment
- Two counts of summary harassment
- Disorderly conduct
The case has sparked outrage, with many condemning the act as a clear display of antisemitism. Authorities are continuing their investigation, and additional charges could follow.
