FYI: Tesla’s Sentry Mode continues to prove its worth by identifying a vandal who targeted a Model 3 Performance in New Jersey.
Tesla’s robust Sentry Mode has once again played a pivotal role in capturing and identifying a vandal, this time involving an owner of a brand-new Model 3 Performance.
Another Vandal Caught Through Sentry Mode
On Thursday, a TikTok user and Model 3 Performance owner, known as adidasemoji, shared harrowing footage from his car’s Sentry Mode that showed a person parking next to his vehicle, exiting their own car, and taking a bat to the Model 3’s rear passenger-side panel. The owner had taken delivery of the vehicle just three days prior. However, thanks to Sentry Mode, authorities identified the vandal by Friday.
Immediate Action and Legal Consequences
Following the incident, the user posted a follow-up video explaining that he planned to press charges against the vandal. The act of vandalism took place in Somerset, New Jersey, while the owner was at work. The captured footage on TikTok quickly garnered attention.
“uhm somone help find this person thank you un advance this was in Somerset New jersey police report was made hopefully something can be done about this ! #tesla #vandalized #model3 #cars"
– TikTok user adidasemoji
Insurance Dilemmas
In a subsequent video, the owner shared his interactions with his insurance company. The cost to repair the damage will involve a deductible, and the incident will mark the vehicle’s history as an accident. This prompted the user to contemplate whether filing a claim would be advantageous in the long run. Despite the dilemma, he expressed relief over the apprehension of the perpetrator.
Rising Trend of Vandalism Against Tesla Vehicles
This event is part of an increasing wave of vandalism targeting Tesla vehicles, with the newly released Cybertruck also facing substantial vandalism. For instance:
- Recently, a Cybertruck’s windows were smashed with children inside, as captured on Ring video.
- In June, several Cybertrucks in Florida were spray-painted with derogatory messages aimed at Elon Musk.
Sentry Mode Proving Its Worth
While not all vandals in previous incidents have been apprehended, Tesla’s Sentry Mode has significantly aided law enforcement in multiple cases over the years. For example, last week, Sentry Mode helped police capture a fugitive who had been eluding capture for eight months.
“Shocking Tesla Sentry Mode video shows man allegedly setting Model S on fire”
- Teslarati Article
Conclusion
Tesla’s Sentry Mode continues to deliver value by not only protecting the vehicles but also serving as an effective tool for crime prevention and resolution. As more incidents come to light, the integration of advanced surveillance technologies like Sentry Mode becomes increasingly valuable in modern automotive safety and security.
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Authored by William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi.
