U.S. Citizen Peter Karasev Pleads Guilty to Bombing PG&E Transformers in San Jose and Endangering Public Safety

Peter Karasev, a 38-year-old U.S. citizen living in San Jose, recently pleaded guilty to federal charges in the Northern District of California.

The charges stem from two separate bombings of Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) electrical transformers that occurred in late 2022 and early 2023.

Karasev’s actions, which resulted in major power outages and widespread damage, were linked to a deliberate effort to destroy critical energy infrastructure.

Karasev’s Admission of Destruction and Damage

In his plea agreement, Karasev admitted to intentionally damaging energy facilities involved in the production, storage, transmission, and distribution of electricity.

The two attacks took place on December 8, 2022, and January 5, 2023, when Karasev used homemade explosives to target PG&E transformers.

These bombings caused significant destruction, leaving parts of San Jose without power for extended periods.

A Grave Threat to National Security

The Justice Department was quick to emphasize the severity of Karasev’s actions.

Sue J. Bai, head of the National Security Division, stated that attacks on critical infrastructure are a direct assault on national security.

“They will be treated like the grave threat they are to our country,” she said.

Bai added that Karasev’s actions endangered thousands of lives and businesses, with far-reaching consequences for essential services in the region.

Authorities Detail the Discovery of Explosive Materials

Following Karasev’s arrest on March 1, 2023, law enforcement agents found a troubling array of dangerous materials.

A search of his home revealed homemade explosive devices, more than 300 pounds of explosive precursor chemicals, firearms, and remote detonation equipment.

This discovery confirmed the potential scale of destruction Karasev could have caused, leading authorities to praise the swift action taken to prevent further harm.

The Impact of the Attacks

The first bombing took place near Westfield Oakridge Mall and caused widespread disruption, leaving over 1,450 residents and businesses without power for nearly 16 hours.

The second attack near Plaza Del Rey shopping center led to further damage to a transformer and surrounding infrastructure, leaving even more people without electricity.

Both attacks disrupted daily life for countless people in the San Jose area.

Preliminary Internet Searches and Planned Attacks

Karasev admitted that his attacks were premeditated.

In the lead-up to the bombings, he conducted extensive online research about explosive materials, attacks on infrastructure, and geopolitical conflicts.

This research, coupled with his deliberate actions, painted a clear picture of the planned nature of his crimes.

What’s Next for Karasev?

As part of the plea deal, Karasev faces a sentence of 102 to 126 months (roughly 8.5 to 10.5 years) in federal prison.

He has also agreed to pay restitution to the tune of $104,076.26 for the damages caused by his bombings.

Karasev’s sentencing is set for August 19, 2025, when he will officially face the consequences of his destructive actions.

Collaboration Between Law Enforcement Agencies

The FBI and the San Jose Police Department have been crucial in investigating the case.

With the support of Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne C. Hsieh and Trial Attorney Jacob Warren, the authorities worked tirelessly to ensure Karasev’s conviction.

The collaboration between these agencies demonstrates the serious commitment to holding accountable those who target the nation’s critical infrastructure.