Engineer Receives 10-Year Sentence for PG&E Transformer Bombings Causing Outages
A San Jose engineer has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for his involvement in bombing incidents targeting Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) transformers. Peter Karasev, 39, pleaded guilty to two counts of willful destruction of an energy facility. His actions led to significant outages and financial losses for local businesses.
Details of the Bombings
Karasev’s criminal activities occurred in late 2022 and early 2023. He admitted to deliberately damaging energy facilities on December 8, 2022, and January 5, 2023. Both attacks utilized homemade explosives that severely impacted the San Jose community.
Impact on the Community
- The bombings resulted in over $200,000 in property damage.
- More than 1,500 households experienced power outages.
- Fifteen homes enrolled in PG&E’s Medical Baseline Program were affected, risking the health of those relying on electricity for medical needs.
Legal Consequences
U.S. District Judge Beth Labson Freeman issued the sentence after considering the significant threat Karasev posed to public safety. Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg emphasized the seriousness of the attacks, noting their implications for national security.
Additional Sentencing Details
Along with the prison term, Karasev was sentenced to three years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $214,880.67 in restitution and a $200 special assessment. Following the sentencing, Karasev was remanded into custody to serve his sentence.
The Investigation
The successful prosecution stemmed from a coordinated investigation by the FBI and the San Jose Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne C. Hsieh led the case with support from the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
Karasev’s case serves as a warning against attacks on critical infrastructure, highlighting the commitment of law enforcement to protect public safety and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
