Forest Service requesting help in bringing vandals to justice

A monetary reward is being offered for information on recent graffiti activity in Hope Valley in Alpine County, located in the Carson Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.

Last week, the U.S. Forest Service revealed that a recent string of vandalism occurred at the end of July in Hope Valley. "Forest Service Nazis" graffiti of all sizes was sprayed with black paint in mid-July. Forest service law enforcement is investigating, but no significant leads have materialized to help solve the crime.

"Public lands have been vandalized, and we're asking anyone with valid information to come forward," said Genny Wilson, Carson District ranger. "The reward is being offered to motivate those who may have witnessed these hateful acts. The public is the key to solving this crime."

Damaging any natural features or other property of the U.S. is a federal violation and is a chargeable offense of a minimum of $250 per incident; the maximum penalty could bring felony charges and fines.

"We do not and never will tolerate hate crimes on your national forest," said Wilson. "We know that the public will be as outraged as we are when they learn about the recent 'Forest Service Nazis' wording sprayed inside the bathrooms, on signs, and on multiple rocks at SNO-Park in Hope Valley, at Burnside Lake Road, and at Scotts Lake."

Wilson believes that some of the vandalism could be attributed to frustration against the federal government in general, or possibly forest service policies.

"Some individuals are just not receptive to the existing rules and regulations," she said. "We want the public to know that our door is always open. We are willing to listen to the public's concerns, and work with them as much as possible. However, that's not an option when criminal activity is involved."

If you have any information regarding the vandalism, please contact Patrol Captain Dave Leveille at (775) 355-5301, or the front desk of the Carson District at (775) 882-2766.