Daniel Clarke-Pounder, a 24-year-old resident of James Island, has been arrested on charges related to an arson incident at a Tesla charging station in North Charleston. The event took place on March 7 when local police and fire departments responded to reports of arson at the station located on Tanger Outlet Boulevard.
Witnesses reported that an individual spray-painted messages including "F*ck Trump" and "Long Live Ukraine" in the parking area before deploying five Molotov cocktails at the chargers, causing damage. Following an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Clarke-Pounder was identified as the suspect and subsequently arrested. He appeared in federal court for arraignment.
Acting U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews emphasized the importance of distinguishing between peaceful protest and acts of violence: "While we will defend the public’s right to peaceful protest, we will not hesitate to act when protest crosses the line into violence and mayhem. These kinds of attacks have no place in our community," he stated.
Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims praised the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies involved: “We’re very proud of the response from our Special Agents and the collaborative effort on this investigation between ATF, the North Charleston Police Department, and the North Charleston Fire Department,” Mims said. He highlighted the critical role played by Certified Fire Investigators in identifying evidence leading to Clarke-Pounder's arrest.
Clarke-Pounder faces up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted. He remains detained ahead of a detention hearing scheduled for March 17 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mary Gordon Baker.
The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cole Shannon and Everett McMillian, with investigations conducted by multiple agencies including ATF and local police and fire departments.
It is important to note that all charges are accusations at this stage, with defendants presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.