A federal judge is deliberating whether Paul Hyon Kim, accused of setting Teslas on fire in Las Vegas, could be released from custody with conditions to ensure community safety. Kim, 36, allegedly vandalized five Teslas at a service center and faces federal charges of arson and unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm. His actions are seen as politically motivated, reflecting broader protests against Teslas as symbols of CEO Elon Musk’s political stance.
During a detention hearing, U.S. Magistrate Judge Elayna Youchah noted Kim’s lack of criminal history and cooperation with the FBI but emphasized the seriousness of the crime. The judge expressed concern over his lack of community ties but considered the possibility of release under home detention with his mother as custodian. However, Youchah made it clear that no decision was guaranteed.
Kim, who also faces multiple charges in a separate court filing, is scheduled to return to federal court. Video evidence reportedly shows him using a firearm and Molotov cocktails against Teslas and spray-painting “Resist” at the facility. Authorities noted Kim’s alleged connections to various social media groups, though these ties appear to be minimal.
