Introducing...Elon's Spies Sweet Bobby Podcast Episode Released on October 10, 2024 by Tortoise Media
Overview
In the premiere episode of Tortoise Media’s investigative series "Elon’s Spies", host Alexei Mostros delves into the shadowy mechanisms through which Elon Musk, one of the world’s most influential and controversial billionaires, employs private investigators to exert control and suppress dissent. This episode unpacks the intricate web of surveillance and defamation Musk orchestrated against Vernon Unsworth, a British cave diver, highlighting the lengths to which Musk will go to protect his reputation and interests.
The Thai Cave Rescue and Initial Encounter
The episode begins by recounting the harrowing events of the 2018 Tham Luang Cave rescue in Thailand, where 13 members of a youth soccer team became trapped. Vernon Unsworth, a seasoned cave diver, played a pivotal role in the successful rescue operation. [19:17]
Notable Quote:
"I didn’t even know who Elon Musk was." – Vernon Unsworth [24:31]
Unsworth’s expertise was instrumental in the rescue, but his involvement inadvertently set the stage for a later confrontation with Musk.
Elon Musk’s Intervention and Failed Submarine
Elon Musk offered to assist by designing a small submarine to aid in the rescue. Despite his enthusiasm, the device proved impractical, leading to criticism from Unsworth.
Notable Quote:
"I bluntly replied, they all die." – Vernon Unsworth [21:00]
Musk’s submarine was deemed ineffective by both experts and Unsworth, straining their professional relationship.
Defamation Campaign: "Pedo Guy" Incident
Following the failed submarine attempt, Musk initiated a defamation campaign against Unsworth, tweeting the derogatory term "pedo guy". This public accusation drastically affected Unsworth’s reputation and led to a legal battle.
Notable Quotes:
"He could have called me anything else other than a pedophile, which was disgraceful, disgusting." – Vernon Unsworth [27:02]
"Betcha a signed dollar. It's true." – Elon Musk [26:22]
Despite Musk’s subsequent apology, his actions left a lasting stain on Unsworth’s personal and professional life.
Legal Battle and Aftermath
Unsworth sued Musk for defamation in the United States, where such cases are notoriously difficult to win. Despite presenting substantial evidence disputing Musk’s claims, Unsworth lost the case, primarily due to Musk’s aggressive legal strategy and the high burden of proof required in American defamation law.
Notable Quote:
"We went toe to toe with a billionaire bully. Not many people have the courage to do that." – Ryan Mac, Former BuzzFeed Reporter [30:05]
The victory by Musk underscored the challenges individuals face when taking on powerful figures in defamation lawsuits.
Investigating Musk’s Use of Private Investigators
The core investigation of the episode reveals how Musk utilized private investigators to gather incriminating information on Unsworth. Musk’s assistant, Jared Burchell, orchestrated surveillance operations through fraudulent investigator James Howard Higgins, leading to the fabrication of false allegations against Unsworth.
Notable Quote:
"Imagine this. You help your little brother land a great job abroad, but when he arrives, the job doesn't exist. Instead, he's trapped in a heavily guarded compound, forced to sit at a computer and scam innocent victims while armed guards stand by with shoot-to-kill orders." – Alexei Mostros [33:00]
The investigation highlights the unethical and potentially illegal methods employed to undermine Unsworth, raising serious concerns about Musk’s accountability and the ethical boundaries of his influence.
Conclusion: The Implications of Musk’s Actions
"Elon’s Spies" concludes by questioning the broader implications of Musk’s actions. It explores how his use of private investigators not only targets personal adversaries but also sets a precedent for the abuse of power among the ultra-wealthy. The episode calls for greater scrutiny and accountability to prevent such tactics from being employed against critics and whistleblowers.
Notable Quote:
"He cannot drop these things. He has to be right, you know, and it doesn't. It's not just that he has to be right. He will make it right." – Vernon Unsworth [42:14]
Unsworth’s reflections underscore the personal toll of Musk’s defamation campaign and the urgent need for systemic changes to protect individuals from such abuses of power.
Key Takeaways:
- Elon Musk employs private investigators to surveil and undermine critics.
- The defamation of Vernon Unsworth exemplifies the extreme measures Musk takes to protect his reputation.
- Legal battles against powerful figures are fraught with challenges, often disadvantaging the accused.
- There is a pressing need for accountability and ethical standards in how influential individuals wield their power.
For a deeper exploration of Elon Musk’s use of private detectives and the ramifications of his actions, listen to the full "Elon’s Spies" series available on all major podcast platforms.