Full Breakdown
Engineer Sentenced for Bombings of PG&E Transformers in San Jose
12/18/2025, 7:14:07 AM
Overview of the Incident
Peter Karasev, a 39-year-old engineer from San Jose, California, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for his involvement in two bombings targeting Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) electrical transformers. The attacks occurred on December 8, 2022, near the Westfield Oakridge Mall, and on January 5, 2023, near the Plaza Del Rey shopping center. Karasev pleaded guilty to two counts of willful destruction of an energy facility on April 29, 2023.
Impact of the Bombings
The bombings resulted in significant damage, exceeding $200,000, and caused widespread power outages affecting over 1,500 households. Among those impacted were 15 households enrolled in PG&E's Medical Baseline Program, which requires uninterrupted electrical service for life-sustaining medical needs. The attacks were characterized as premeditated, with Karasev conducting extensive research on explosive materials and infrastructure attacks prior to the incidents.
Official Statements
U.S. District Judge Beth Labson Freeman emphasized the severity of Karasev's actions, stating that his specialized knowledge in explosives and the materials found in his home posed a significant risk to public safety. John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for National Security, remarked on the commitment of the National Security Division to prosecute attacks on critical infrastructure. Craig H. Missakian, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California, noted that Karasev's actions were direct threats to public safety and national security, emphasizing the importance of holding individuals accountable for such threats.
Sentencing Details
In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Freeman ordered Karasev to serve three years of supervised release following his incarceration. He was also mandated to pay $214,880.67 in restitution and a $200 special assessment. Following the sentencing, Karasev was immediately remanded into custody to begin serving his sentence.
Criticism & Opposition
While the prosecution has been largely supported by law enforcement and government officials, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of the measures taken to prevent such incidents in the future. Critics may argue that more robust security protocols are necessary to protect critical infrastructure from similar attacks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Karasev’s specialized knowledge in explosives, the vast quantity of bombmaking materials discovered in his home, and his readiness to deploy both against our Nation’s energy infrastructure made him a very dangerous individual who posed a significant risk to public safety,” — John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for National Security
- “He aimed to inflict widespread disruption and harm, but we remain steadfast in our commitment to holding accountable those who threaten the safety and well-being of the residents of San Jose.” — Craig H. Missakian, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California
- “This individual conducted research and prepared homemade explosives which knocked out power to multiple homes and caused more than $200,000 in property damage to local businesses.” — Donald Holstead, Assistant Director of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division
Conclusion
The sentencing of Peter Karasev underscores the serious nature of attacks on critical infrastructure and the commitment of law enforcement to address such threats. The repercussions of his actions highlight the potential risks to public safety and the importance of safeguarding essential services.
