USDA - FOREST SERVICE
LAW ENFORCEMENT AND INVESTIGATIONS
WEEKLY REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF
July 6 - 12, 2014
We had some real winners visiting our National Forest this week. I have not seen this much activity come across my desk in a long time. Enjoy.
REGION 2
Arapaho & Roosevelt NFs - On 6/7, an LEO on the Clear Creek RD contacted approximately 14 individuals regarding illegal camping at the Barbour Fork Trailhead. The LEO issued four violation notices and a written warning to the individuals. The officer requested the individuals to vacate their campsite. Later that day, the LEO and two Clear Creek County SD Deputies issued 11 written warnings to individuals illegally camping at Fisherman’s Access. The individuals are employed by a rafting company in the area.
On 6/15, an LEO on the Clear Creek RD and a Clear Creek County SD Deputy issued violation notices to four individuals for shooting firearms in a closed area. Although two of the four individuals were convicted felons, the officers did not observe them carrying or shooting firearms at that time.
On 6/16, LEOs from Clear Creek and Canyon Lakes RDs along with a PC participated in a multi-agency Active Shooter training exercise at the Regional Office.
On 6/29, an LEO on the Clear Creek RD and a Colorado Division of Parks & Wildlife Officer contacted six individuals illegally camping at Fisherman’s Access. All but two of the individuals had outstanding arrest warrants issued by agencies in other states. The officers issued warnings to the individuals and requested them to vacate the area.
On 6/30 an LEO on the Clear Creek RD and an FS Fire crew responded to a plane crash and resulting fire at the Loveland Ski Area. The fire burned approximately one-quarter acre of NFS land. The three occupants of the plane, a mother, father and child, did not survive the incident.
On 6/30, an LEO on the Clear Creek RD and a Clear Creek County SD Deputy issued violation notices to five individuals for shooting in a closed area.
On 7/5, an LEO on the Clear Creek RD, two Gilpin County SD Deputies and a Central City PD Officer contacted two individuals illegally camping on the Forest. One of the individuals was currently under investigation regarding a methamphetamine/prostitute ring, larceny, and trespass. The other individual has a lengthy criminal history. The officers issued citations to both individuals for residing on NFS lands, and sanitation related violations. Both individuals had revoked driver’s license; the PD Officer impounded the individuals’ vehicles after they left NFS lands.
On 7/5, an LEO and a Clear Creek County Deputy contacted two rafting guides residing at Fisherman’s Access. The LEO issued warnings to the individuals for residing on NFS lands and requested them to vacate the area. The Deputy issued a summons to them for no proof of trailer registration.
The Clear Creek County SD, with assistance from cadaver dogs, continues to search for a father and son who were reported as missing at the base of Mount Evans on 4/4.
Bighorn NF - On 7/3, an LEO was driving down a steep section of U.S. Highway 16 in the Bighorn Mountains within the Powder River RD when he observed a loaded semi-tractor truck approach from behind at a high rate of speed. Due to smoke emitting from the truck’s wheel-wells, the officer drove into the roadside ditch to avoid being run over. The LEO then immediately followed the truck while activating his patrol vehicle’s emergency lights. Two additional drivers pulled into a turn-out to avoid the fast approaching truck. An empty cattle truck remained in front of the loaded truck while it was travelling along the steep downgrade. The LEO informed Johnson County Dispatch Center that the truck was now on fire due to overheating brakes. Fire personnel, County Deputies, and Wyoming HP responded to locations along the highway. The semi-truck, with all brakes on fire, finally stopped at the city limits of Buffalo WY. Three tires then blew-up due to the extreme amount of heat generated from the brake fires. Officers utilized fire extinguishers from their patrol vehicles to cool the burning brakes prior to the arrival of fire personnel. Wyoming HP issued a citation to the driver of the truck for careless driving. Further investigation determined the driver did not stop at the mandatory brake check prior to the downgrade nor did he utilize either of the runaway truck ramps alongside the roadway. During the past five years, several trucks have caught fire while travelling down the same stretch of highway; three individuals were fatally injured after drivers failed to negotiate a curve.
Black Hills NF - As a result of an LEO’s investigation, a local campground owner was indicted in June for guiding horseback rides on unauthorized trails on the Hell Canyon RD. The individual is charged with destruction of government property in excess of $1,000. The case is currently in litigation; a trial has been set for 8/5.
Nebraska NF & Grassland - On 6/16, an FPO on the Fort Pierre NG observed a vehicle parked 150 yards off-road beyond a “road closed” sign. The driver had just visited the District office to obtain the area’s current motor vehicle use map along with additional information regarding locations to shoot prairie dogs. The FPO issued a violation notice to the man for operating a vehicle off a designated road.
On 6/24, an FPO along with an additional FS employee conducted a patrol on the Fort Pierre NG. The two employees stopped to check a vehicle parked off-road and contacted two individuals fishing from a boat in a pond. The FPO issued a violation notice to the owner/operator of the vehicle for driving off a designated road. After further investigation, the employees found the boat contained only one life jacket; one of the individuals claimed he left his fishing license at home. The FPO contacted the local state Conservation Officer (CO). While the employees were following the vehicle back to a designated road, the passenger threw trash out the vehicle’s window. After the passenger picked up the trash, the FPO issued a written warning to him for littering. The CO issued a citation to the individual for no fishing license; the individual’s fishing privileges will be revoked for one year as a result. The following day, an additional written warning was issued to the same driver after he parked his vehicle off-road near the same pond.
Pike NF - While reporting for work during the early morning hours on 6/28, two FS employees discovered an unfamiliar pick-up truck inside an FS Work Center. The employees contacted two individuals loading scrap metal into the truck. FS employees had separated the scrap metal for recycling purpose. The two employees requested the individuals to unload the scrap metal and vacate the Work Center. The employees photographed the individuals and their truck, and notified the District LEO. The officer contacted the two individuals and determined they both have a lengthy criminal history. The two individuals admitted they entered the Work Center with the intent to remove the scrap metal which they thought was “free for the taking.” The LEO issued violation notices to them for entering the closed FS Work Center.
San Isabel NF - On 7/5, an LEO and Lake County SD Deputies responded to a report of multiple fee tube break-ins at campgrounds around Turquoise Lake on the Leadville RD. The LEO determined that five fee tubes had been tampered with, and several had been pushed over or struck by a vehicle. The Deputies contacted a man driving a vehicle with damage consistent with the marks one of the fee tubes. After further investigation, the Deputies placed the man under arrest for DUI (drugs). As a result of a search warrant for the vehicle, the man was also charged with burglary, attempted burglary, and possession of a stolen vehicle. Federal charges are pending the prosecution of the state charges. The man is also a suspect in a fee tube break-in on the White River NF within Pitkin County.
White River NF - On 7/4, an LEO conducted a patrol on the Aspen-Sopris RD. The LEO issued written warnings to individuals in three dispersed campsites outside designated locations in the Lincoln Creek area. The officer also issued three written warnings for building a campfire outside a fire ring.
On 7/4, an LEO and a BLM Ranger conducted a patrol on the Aspen-Sopris RD. The LEO and Ranger contacted a group of individuals in the Four Mile Park area. The LEO issued violation notices to them for discharging fireworks on NFS lands, and possession of marijuana; a written warning was issued for minor in possession of alcohol.
On 7/5, an LEO on the Aspen-Sopris RD investigated a report of a man intimidating two FS employees in a campground the previous week. The LEO contacted the man and warned him of the consequences of his actions. The officer requested the man to vacate the campground within 24 hours; he complied without further incident.
On 7/6, an LEO on the Aspen-Sopris RD assisted Garfield County SD, Glenwood Springs PD, and Upper Colorado River Fire Management personnel during the South Canyon Fire Commemorative Event in Glenwood Springs, CO. The LEO conducted traffic control and provided extra security during the event.
REGION 3
Apache Sitgreaves NF - On 7/8, a PC and three Apache County SD Deputies conducted a search on the Springerville and Alpine RDs for the suspect of an assault at an FS facility on 7/4. While at the administrative site, the PC and Deputies contacted the occupants of a vehicle in the closed facility. After further investigation, the officers addressed numerous violations including unregistered vehicle, possession of open containers of alcohol, and operating a vehicle without a required interlock device. After receiving additional information from an FS employee, the PC located the suspect of the assault and placed him under arrest without incident.
On 7/8, a PC investigated smoke visible from a highway on the Springerville RD. The PC located the source of the smoke, and determined it was a snag struck by lightning. The officer provided directions to FS Fire personnel responding to the scene. Later that day, the PC responded to a report of an aggressive dog at Rainbow CG. Due to the fact Apache County Animal Control personnel were not available at that time, the PC attempted to catch the dog. The PC was bitten by the dog twice and suffered minor injuries. The dog was later turned over to the custody of its owners.
On 7/8, a PC, county deputies, and EMS responded to a report of a man who had been struck by lightning and rendered unconscious at Nelson Reservoir on the Springerville RD. After determining the man was not struck by lightning but was suffering a diabetic episode, EMS transported him to a hospital. Later that day, the PC responded to a report of two hikers lost and stranded on a trailduring a thunderstorm.The PC, additional FS employees, Greer FD, and Apache County SD Deputies coordinated a SAR operation for the two hikers (a mother and her son). Approximately two hours later, SAR personnel located the two hikers and transported them from the area.
On 7/10, an LEO assisted FS Fire personnel in locating the source of smoke near Chipmunk Springs Trail on the Lakeside RD. The employees found the scene and determined the smoke was from a fire caused by lightning. FS Fire personnel extinguished the three-acre fire.
On 7/12, LEOs and Navajo County SD Deputies responded to the scene of an OHV roll-over accident on the Black Mesa RD. Medical units administered CPR to the OHV operator for approximately 20 minutes but were unable to revive him. Later that day, the LEOs assisted a Coconino County SD Deputy with locating the parents of a lost eight-year-old child at Woods Canyon Lake. Officers located the child’s parents at a site across the lake and reunited the child with them.
On 7/12, an LEO investigated a report from Arizona Game & Fish regarding a suspected timber theft. The LEO contacted the suspect at his residence within the Lakeside RD. After determining the man gathered the wood without authorization from the Green’s Peak area on the Springerville RD, the LEO issued a violation notice to him. The man later met with the LEO and returned the wood to the FS.
On 7/12, an LEO on the Lakeside RD was passed by a vehicle being driven by a male juvenile. The LEO conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle a short distance down the road. The officer found the juvenile was now in the passenger seat and a man was driving the vehicle. Navajo County Dispatch reported the man had a suspended driver’s license. After further investigation, the LEO issued a violation notice to the man for allowing an unlicensed minor (his son) to operate a vehicle. The LEO turned the man over to the custody of a Navajo County SD Deputy for state charges.
Carson NF - On 7/6, an LEO contacted the owner of a dead bull that had been dumped on the Canjilon RD. After determining the bull was mistakenly dumped on NFS lands, the LEO requested the owner to remove it. No further action was taken.
On 7/10, an LEO responded to the scene of a large campfire along a state road near the Wheeler Wilderness Area on the Questa RD.Taos Ski Valley PD, Taos Ski Valley Fire, and Arroyo Hondo Fire responded to extinguish the fire. The LEO issued a violation notice to a man at the site for failing to clear debris around his campfire; a warning was issued to the man for residing on NFS lands.
Cibola NF -On 7/7, an LEO on the Magdalena RD assisted New Mexico SP and Socorro County SD at the scene of a roll-over involving a tow truck along I-25 adjacent to NFS lands. While a Deputy was conducting the accident investigation, the Deputy’s vehicle was struck by a northbound vehicle; the front seat passenger of that vehicle reported pain in her chest and neck. An ambulance responded to the scene. The LEO assisted with conducting traffic control to slow approaching vehicles. Shortly thereafter, a third vehicle was involved in a collision, and an SP vehicle’s tire “blew-out” resulting in further traffic build-up. No major injuries were reported throughout the incidents.
On 7/9, LEOs observed a man and a woman drinking from beer bottles in the Cedro Lookout area on the Sandia RD. After the couple began to drive away, the man tossed both bottles into the brush. The LEOs conducted a traffic stop on their vehicle and determined the man was under the age of 21. The officers issued multiple violation notices to both individuals.
On 7/12, LEOs participated in an open house conducted by FS employees at the newly constructed Magdalena RD office in the town of Magdalena, NM during the Old Timers Festival. The festival included rodeos, dances, music, and horse races. The LEOs assisted District personnel in greeting visitors and providing information regarding public lands and the FS.
Coconino NF - On 7/4-6, two LEOs assisted Coconino County SD with conducting traffic control and maintaining closures on the Red Rock RD due to potential flooding as a result of the Slide Fire in Oak Creek Canyon. On 7/4, the canyon received more than an inch of rain, causing a landslide that trapped one vehicle and closed the road. On 7/6, heavy rain closed the road once again, but damage was limited and the road re-opened later that day.
On 7/7, an LEO responded to assist an NPS Ranger at the scene of a traffic stop in Wapatki National Monument adjacent to the Flagstaff RD. The Ranger placed the driver under arrest for DUI. An injured passenger in the vehicle claimed she was assaulted by her boyfriend near the Monument’s visitor center approximately 20 minutes prior to the stop. The woman claimed her boyfriend, who had a felony warrant for his arrest, had left the area on foot. The LEO patrolled northern areas of Wapatki National Monument to the reservation boundary but was unable to locate the boyfriend.
On 7/8, an LEO investigated an unoccupied campsite near Fat Man’s Loop Trail on the Flagstaff RD. The camp was set-up in an area closed to camping within the Flagstaff city limits. The LEO left a warning notice at the site. Later that day, the LEO responded along with Flagstaff FD to a reported large campfire at the same site. While firefighters extinguished the campfire, the LEO interviewed a man from Texas. The LEO issued a violation notice to the man for building/maintaining a prohibited campfire; multiple written warnings were issued to the man as well.
On 7/11, an LEO investigated two reports of rebar placed in roadways for the apparent intent to damage tires of vehicles on the Mogollon Rim RD. One of the reporting parties recovered five pieces of rebar from a dirt racetrack. The skillfully designed implements were driven into the ground; three inches of rebar remained exposed above ground. The honed knife point tip of the exposed rebar was painted to match the color of the dirt track. The LEO removed eight rebar implements from two separate areas located three miles apart. The rebar was placed by unknown individuals in sites closed to motorized vehicles, and within a track where OHV traffic is funneled through a single lane of travel. The LEO interviewed campers in the area and documented 12 OHV tires that had been destroyed. Although the placement of the implements poses a risk of serious injury to people and animals, no injuries were reported. The investigation is ongoing. The following day, the LEO issued violation notices to three groups of individuals operating OHVs off-road and in closed areas on the District.
Coronado NF -On 7/8, an LEO/K9 team provided security for a fire crew that was mopping up the Long Park Fire on the Douglas RD. The LEO/K9 team provided the security due to the fire’s proximity to the U.S./Mexico border and associated illegal activities in the area.
On 7/12, an LEO/K9 team assisted an USFWS Refuge Officer conducting a Herpetology Array at the Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge. Several reptiles and amphibians were temporarily collected for processing.
Gila NF - On 7/6, an LEO located an unoccupied vehicle while assisting FS staff with closing a day-use area on the Glenwood RD. The employees searched the area but were unable to locate the driver. Approximately three hours later, a man and a woman arrived at the vehicle and claimed they were delayed in returning to it while hiking in an unfamiliar area. The LEO issued written warnings to both individuals for being a closed area after hours. The officer detained the man due to an outstanding warrant and transferred him to the custody of the New Mexico SP shortlythereafter.
On 7/12, an LEO was contacted by a man who reported his family had been struck by lightning at the Quemado Lake Recreation Area on the Quemado RD. The man was having difficulty answering the LEO’s questions. The officer observed unusual burns on an adult and a nine-year old child. The LEO requested EMS personnel from the Quemado Volunteer FD to respond, checked the three victims’ vital signs, and provided comfort to them until EMS personnel transported the individuals to a hospital.
Kaibab NF -On 7/6, an LEO on the North Kaibab RD, NPS Rangers, and Arizona HP Officers responded to a reported head-on collision between two tractor trailers. The officers found the accident involved only one tractor trailer. The truck was hauling milk when it rolled over, causing the tank to split and dump thousands of gallons of milk. The LEO assisted with traffic control until crews were able to remove the truck from the area.
On 7/10-12, an LEO issued violation notices to multiple individuals in four separate camps for residing on the Williams RD. One individual had a non-extraditable warrant issued by Gila County for theft; the individual was camping at a site along a road where a firearm had recently been stolen from a parked vehicle. The LEO also issued a violation notice to a man for allowing his child to not wear a helmet while operating an ATV.
On 7/11, an LEO assisted an FPO in locating the individual allegedly responsible for an unattended campfire on the North Kaibab RD. The officers issued a violation notice to the man.
On 7/12, an LEO assisted Arizona HP and a local fire department at the scene of a head-on collision on the North Kaibab RD. Both drivers required several hours of extrication in order to be recovered from their vehicles; one vehicle was precariously positioned down an embankment. One driver was airlifted from the scene while the other was transported via ambulance to a hospital. The HP is conducting the investigation.
Lincoln NF -On 7/11, an LEO responded to a report of an abandoned campfire in the Cedar Creek area on the Smokey Bear RD. The LEO located the campfire, and an additional fire smoldering at a nearby camp. Additional FS employees responded to extinguish the fires. The following day, the LEO responded to a report of smoke in the James Canyon area near Highway 82. A private landowner conducting a controlled burn called 911 when he lost control of the fire. The James Canyon Volunteer FD and several FS Engines responded to prevent the fire from spreading.
Prescott NF - On 7/12, an LEO on the Bradshaw RD issued multiple violation notices and written warnings to individuals for ATV related violations.
Santa Fe NF -On 7/7, LEOs responded to a reported explosion on the Jemez RD. A firefighter was transported to a hospital for treatment of reportedly minor injuries. The LEOs assisted BATF personnel with the investigation.
Tonto NF - On 7/6, an LEO on the Tonto Basin RD issued a violation notice to a man for maintaining a charcoal campfire during fire restrictions. Later that day, the LEO responded to Apache Lake where a large 10-ton motorhome became stuck in sand during a flash flood the previous night. The LEO contacted an off-road tow company who was able to recover the motorhome from the sand.
On 7/6-7, an LEO the Cave Creek RD issued violation notices to individuals for maintaining illegal campfires in the Box Bar and Yellow Cliffs Recreation Areas. A Maricopa County SD Deputy issued citations to two individuals at one of the sites for being a minor in possession of alcohol.
On 7/10, an LEO responded to a drowning at Saguaro Lake on the Mesa RD. The male victim reportedly jumped from a cliff into the water but did not resurface. The following day, the LEO responded to the Lower Salt River where a man was injured when he jumped from a cliff and into the water. Private citizens pulled the injured man from the water. The LEO and a Maricopa County SD Deputy later responded to a domestic violence incident along the Lower Salt River. The officers separated the two involved individuals and resolved the situation.
On 7/12, an LEO responded to the report of an injured hawk on the Lower Salt River on the Mesa RD. The LEO coordinated with a local licensed rehabilitator to recover the hawk from the area. The hawk is expected to make a full recovery.
REGION 4
Boise NF -On 7/8, the first of six defendants was sentenced after pleading guilty in U.S. District Court in Boise, ID to charges stemming from his involvement in a marijuana grow operation on NFS lands. The charges were the result of a multi-agency investigation in 2013 regarding 6,800 marijuana plants grown on the Idaho City and Lowman RDs. Per a negotiated plea agreement, the defendant pleaded guilty to manufacturing 1,000 or more marijuana plants and damaging government property. He was sentenced to serve 30 months in federal prison, and ordered to pay $33,265 restitution for costs associated with the clean-up of the grow site and rehabilitating the damage caused to public land. The alleged leader of this drug trafficking organization is scheduled for trial in September 2014. The remaining four defendants pleaded guilty on a prior date and are awaiting sentencing.
Uinta-Wasatch-Cache NF - On 7/4, two LEOs on the Ogden RD conducted patrols during high volumes of public use in the Pineview and Causey Reservoir areas. The LEOs conducted traffic control and addressed multiple incidents including individuals operating ATVs on a walking trail.
On 7/5, two fires occurred on county lands adjacent to a reservoir. An LEO assisted with traffic control, interviewing witnesses, and locating one of the fire’s area of origin. The officer also responded to the scene where an ATV rolled on top of a nine-year-old girl. The LEO requested a helicopter to airlift the girl to a hospital and transported her to the helicopter’s landing zone.
On 7/6, an LEO assisted county personnel at the scene where a woman broke her femur while wakeboarding. The LEO also assisted two individuals who experienced a bad reaction while “smoking spice” at the beach.
On 7/11, an LEO on the Ogden RD assisted the Utah DNR at a roadblock for the purpose of providing educational information to the public regarding the protection and appropriate use of natural resources.
On 7/12, an LEO assisted the County SD with investigating thefts of a cell phone, a wake board, and life jackets from individuals at Anderson CG. The LEO also addressed multiple incidents involving possession of glass containers and littering at a beach, and reckless driving in developed recreation areas.
REGION 5
Sierra NF - On 5/21-31, an LEO on the High Sierra RD assisted with patrolling the Rim Fire Closure on the Stanislaus NF. The LEO issued 10 violation notices, participated in a SAR operation, and assisted CHP at a commercial log truck inspection checkpoint.
On 6/9, an LEO investigated the one-tenth acre Swanson Fire in the Shaver Lake area on the High Sierra RD. Later that day, the LEO responded to assist Cal Fire at the 40-acre Morgan Fire; the fire destroyed one structure and burned lands surrounding additional structures after it jumped Highway 168. The LEO secured the fire’s area of origin and conducted witness interviews while the Cal Fire investigator was at the scene of two additional vegetation fires in the area.
On 6/14, two LEOs and a county deputy responded to a reported physical altercation in the Dinkey Creek area on the High Sierra RD. The two LEOs located the reporting party while he was sleeping next to a meth pipe. After further investigation, the LEOs determined the man was also in possession of methamphetamine. The LEOs placed the man under arrest and transported him to the Fresno County Jail.
On 6/16, two LEOs on the High Sierra RD and an SA responded to the Forest Aviation Officer’s request for assistance after an air tanker’s landing gear failed upon landing at the Fresno Air Attack Base. A large media presence was expected at the scene. The SA assisted NTSB personnel with investigating the incident. Later that day, five LEOs and four SAs assisted Fresno SD and Fresno PD with providing security at a public meeting held by the Sierra NF. The meeting was in regards to the Forest Plan Revision. Members of the public protested the USFWS recent listing of several amphibians. The meeting and the protest were conducted without incident.
On 6/17, an LEO on the Bass Lake RD investigated individuals suspected of residing on the Forest. The LEO contacted Madera County Civil Department personnel and learned the individuals were in the process of being evicted from the address provided to the LEO. The officer contacted the individuals and informed them of residential use regulations. The individuals vacated the Forest later that day.
On the morning of 6/20, an LEO on the Bass Lake RD assisted Madera County with a SAR for a man who walked away from his campsite at Mammoth Pools 14 hours prior but had not returned. SAR personnel located the lost man a few miles from his campsite.
On 6/21, an LEO on the High Sierra RD provided a ride-a-long to a college student interested in a career in natural resources. The LEO patrolled the Bald Mountain and Dinkey Creek areas where the annual Moonlight Madness Poker Run was taking place. The officer issued multiple violation notices and warnings for open container of alcohol, expired registration, litter, abandoned campfires, fishing with a net, and fishing without a license. The following morning, two LEOs contacted a group of individuals in the Bald Mountain area during the Poker Run. An LEO had issued a warning to the group for fire and sanitation issues associated with excessive alcohol use at the camp the previous day. The LEOs found the individuals were asleep but had not resolved the prior sanitation issues. The officers issued a violation notice to the group, and ensured they cleaned up the site.
On 6/23, and LEO conducted a presentation to Bass Lake RD employees regarding safety issues related to marijuana cultivation sites and suspicious dump sites.
On 6/24, two LEOs on the High Sierra RD and an SA met with Game Wardens, California Water Resources Board, California Department of Fish & Wildlife, and Fresno SD to discuss issues, violations, and ongoing cases on the Forest.
On 7/6, an LEO on the High Sierra RD assisted Madera SD in locating two missing bicyclists. The two individuals were riding with a companion when they rode up to Shuteye Peak, down into Whiskey Falls and continued to North Fork. The two individuals became separated from their companion when they took a wrong turn in an unfamiliar area. The officers located the two missing cyclists and assisted them from the area.
REGION 8
Chattahoochee-Oconee NF -On 7/2, an LEO from the Conasauga RD received a 911 report of overdue hikers on the Jacks River Trail in the Cohutta Wilderness Area. Due to the preparedness of the hikers and no medical concerns, SAR personnel decided to wait until daylight to search for the hikers. District personnel assisted with the SAR operation until the hikers were located the following day.
On 7/4, LEOs on the Blue Ridge RD responded to the Lake Blue Ridge CG host’s request to assist with crowd and traffic control while more than 2,000 individuals attended the Fourth of July firework celebration. An LEO also responded to reports of individuals operating ATVs in the Cashes Valley. The LEO issued violation notices to three individuals for operating an ATV on a public roadway.
On 7/6, an LEO on the Conasauga RD was conducting a fishing compliance check at Manning Mill when a man without a fishing license became very argumentative. After further investigation, the man was placed under arrest for outstanding warrants and transported to the Walker County Detention Center.
Daniel Boone NF -On 6/29, an LEO on the Cumberland RD responded to the scene where a 21-foot fiberglass boat was taking on water due to a rip in the inboard/outboard gasket. A large group of individuals were in the water in order to keep the boat afloat. A Kentucky Fish & Wildlife Officer transported a sump pump to the scene. The device was utilized to successfully remove the boat from the lake.
On 7/1, an LEO and a PC on the Cumberland RD, along with a Deputy Sheriff hiked to a reported marijuana cultivation site in Menifee County. The officers eradicated 12 marijuana plants from the site.
On 7/1, an LEO on the Cumberland RD and a Deputy/K9 team hiked to a man’s residential campsite in the Hatton Ridge area. The man had fled on foot when the deputy attempted to contact him regarding multiple felony warrants on several prior occasions. The officers and K9 quietly approached the site and took the man into custody without incident.
On 7/3, an LEO on the London RD was contacted by two individuals who found an injured owl while boating. The individuals determined the owl was stuck in a tree and pried it out of the branches in order to rescue it. The LEO unsuccessfully attempted to contact a raptor rescue facility. A short time later, the owl began to stir and moved both wings. The LEO transported the owl to an unpopulated area and safely released it.
On 7/5, an LEO on the Cumberland RD, a county deputy, and EMS responded to a 911 report of a man stabbed in the leg in the Grays Arch area. The responders determined a 26-year-old man stabbed himself in the lower leg with a knife while cutting a stick. SAR personnel carried the man from the area; he was transported via private vehicle to a hospital.
On 7/5, an LEO on the London RD responded to a reported altercation involving a gunshot in Rockcastle CG. The LEOs contacted the reported individuals and determined the shot was actually fireworks. The officers placed two of the individuals under arrest for alcohol intoxication and transported them to the Laurel County Detention Center.
Francis Marion and Sumter NF - On 7/5, LEOs approached two individuals camped at a non-designated area on the Andrew Pickens RD. A man quickly walked from the driver’s door of a van and threw a shiny object into the woods. After the LEOs located the shiny container, they placed the man under arrest for interfering with an officer, and possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.
George Washington and Jefferson NF -On 7/3, an LEO on the Glenwood and Pedlar RDs contacted a man and a woman who were reported as being overly loud at the Sherando Recreation Area. Augusta County SD informed the LEO that the man was convicted of raping two 12-year-old girls, and is a violent registered sex offender. After further investigation, the LEO issued violation notices to the man and the woman for violating the area’s “quiet hours”, and failure to properly store food. The individuals complied with the LEO’s request to vacate their campsite within one hour.
On 7/3, an LEO on the Eastern Divide RD issued a violation notice to a 22-year-old woman for drinking alcohol in public. The following day, the LEO conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle travelling at a high rate of speed along a curve on Dismal Road on the Eastern Divide RD. The LEO issued a violation notice to the 17-year-old driver who admitted she did not have a license.
On 7/3, an LEO on the Glenwood and Pedlar RDs contacted a man drinking alcohol at the beach within the Sherando Recreation Area. After further investigation, the LEO issued violation notices to the man for possessing alcohol within a prohibited area, dog off-leash, and possession of Schedule IV Narcotics. The following day, LEOs and the Augusta County SD conducted a compliance checkpoint in the Recreation Area. The LEOs issued a total of 35 violation notices for reckless driving, failure to wear a seatbelt, failure to provide a child vehicle restraint device, suspended driver’s license, and expired registration.
On 7/6, an LEO and an SA responded to investigate the scene of a shallow grave along FS Road 502 near Hawk CG on the Lee RD. On 7/5, the LEO was contacted by the West Virginia SP following a traffic stop where officers heard children in the vehicle discussing dad killing their little brother. The “dad” was currently driving the vehicle and transporting a woman and four children as passengers. The SP determined the driver was a fugitive from justice with outstanding arrest warrants issued in Colorado. The license plates on the vehicle had been reported as stolen. During an interview, the man admitted that an infant child had been buried on the George Washington NF in Hardy County. The man and the woman agreed to lead investigators to the area if cigarettes were provided to them. The couple then led investigators to the site of a shallow grave covered with a large boulder. The body of an infant wrapped in a sweatshirt was found in the grave. The infant’s body was exhumed and transported to the Medical Examiner’s Office. The couple was placed under arrest for child neglect and remanded to custody in Morgantown, WV. The children are under the supervision and care of West Virginia authorities. Further charges are pending the Medical Examiner’s report.
Kisatchie NF -On 7/5, an LEO on the Catahoula RD located multiple methamphetamine production components at an abandoned campsite. The LEO and local Sheriff’s Department Narcotics Division personnel are conducting the ongoing investigation. The officer later contacted a man regarding several traffic violations at the Stuart Lake Recreation Area, and determined he was in possession of marijuana and Schedule II narcotics. The officer issued multiple violation notices to the man.
On 7/5, LEOs on the Calcasieu RD issued violation notices and written warnings to multiple individuals for boating related violations at the East Kincade Boat Ramp.
NFs in Alabama -On 6/18, an LEO on the Bankhead RD received a report from a campground host of a possible sexual assault on a 12-year-old girl at the day use area of a popular recreation site. The LEO coordinated with the local sheriff’s department as well as other FS personnel to investigate the report. Law enforcement personnel contacted the accused individual on scene. After further investigation, the officers determined the individual was communicating inappropriately with the minor but had not committed a physical act.
On 6/20, an LEO on the Bankhead RD responded to a 911 report of a man bitten by a poisonous snake within the Bankhead NF. The man drove himself to a hospital in Moulton, AL. The LEO interviewed the man at the hospital and learned he was conducting research when he discovered a snake in one of his traps. While processing data from the snake (later identified as a copperhead) it bit the man’s index finger. The man was released from the hospital several hours later.
On 7/4, an LEO on the Bankhead RD participated in a SAR for eight individuals, four adults and four children, who were reportedly lost on the Sipsey River. In order to pinpoint the individuals’ location, the LEO and a Winston County SD Deputy deployed their vehicles’ sirens at various locations until the group reported hearing them. The individuals were fatigued but otherwise uninjured.
On 7/5, an LEO on the Bankhead RD stopped a vehicle for no license plate. The LEO was informed by the occupants of the vehicle that additional individuals were in possession of alcohol in a prohibited area at nearby Kinlock Falls. The officer and an Alabama Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Agent walked to the waterfall where they contacted four individuals in possession of alcohol, marijuana and narcotics. The LEO issued several violation notices to the individuals; additional federal and state charges are pending. Later that day, the LEO assisted an Alabama ABC Lieutenant at two traffic stops where the occupants were in possession of alcohol. The LEO issued several violation notices to the individuals; the alcohol was seized as evidence.
NF and Grasslands in Texas - On 6/28, LEOs on the Sam Houston NF assisted a Texas State Game Warden at Paluka Point with the arrest of an individual for outstanding warrants and possession of marijuana. The individual was transported to the Montgomery County Jail.
On 6/30, an LEO on Sam Houston NF and an SA responded to FS employees’ report of the burglary of a government vehicle at the Ranger Station. The LEO and the SA identified a possible suspect that had been arrested in the same area and transported to the Walker County Jail the previous day. The SA and the LEO interviewed the suspect who then admitted to the vehicle burglary as well as two additional burglaries in the area. The LEO provided the information to the Walker County SD; the investigation is ongoing.
On 7/4, LEOs assisted Texas DPS Troopers at the scene of an accident along FM 1375 on the Sam Houston NF. The accident apparently occurred after the driver lost control of his vehicle. The driver was fatally injured, and his juvenile son was seriously injured. Texas DPS Troopers are investigating the accident.
On 7/4, LEOs on the Angelina NF contacted a group of individuals for operating a vehicle off-road. After further investigation, the LEOs issued state citations, along with federal violation notices and written warnings, to the individuals for possession of a controlled substance (hydrocodone without a prescription), possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, operating a vehicle off-road, littering, and causing resource damage.
On 7/4-6, LEOs on the Angelina NF contacted numerous individuals recreating at Sam Rayburn Lake. The LEOs issued approximately 50 violation notices and state citations for possession of controlled substances (K2, synthetic marijuana, hydrocodone), possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of open containers of alcohol, operating vehicles off-road, operating ATVs on a public roadway, operating an ATV while not wearing required safety equipment, operating non-registered vehicles on public roads, no insurance, expired registration, driving while license suspended or invalid, and failure to possess an ID. Written warnings were issued for numerous ATV related violations, providing false information, interfering with an investigation, operating vehicles off-road, causing resource damage, littering, and no seatbelt. The LEOs also assisted Texas DPS at the scene of an ATV injury accident.
On 7/5, an LEO/K9 team approached a group of individuals playing horseshoes in the Lakeview Recreation Area on the Sabine NF. One of the men quickly attempted to hide the beer can he was holding. The LEO/K9 team contacted the group who then admitted they had not paid the required use fee. The LEO observed a rifle lying in the backseat of a truck at the site and, after further investigation, determined it was illegally loaded with a bullet in the chamber. The officer issued two violation notices for minor possessing/consuming alcohol. The LEO issued written warnings to the group for failure to pay the recreation fee, and possessing a loaded firearm in a developed recreation area.
On 7/5, LEOs on the Sam Houston NF assisted Texas Parks & Wildlife Officers who were conducting boat patrol when they contacted a man with four outstanding warrants. After the man arrived at the Scott’s Ridge Boat Ramp, an LEO placed him under arrest and transported him to the Montgomery County Jail.
NFs in Mississippi -On 7/4, an LEO on the De Soto NF observed a truck parked on the side of a road near White Plains Bridge. The LEO walked down to the creek and approached three males and a female drinking alcohol. Although three of the individuals immediately sunk their beer cans in the creek, the cans quickly floated back up to the top. The LEO requested the individuals to retrieve their beer cans from the creek. The officer escorted the group back to their truck, and determined the female was 15-years-old; the males were ages 17, 19, and 22. The LEO issued violation notices to the individuals for minor in possession of alcohol, possession of glass in a streambed, and contributing alcohol to a minor; four written warnings were issued for littering. The officer released the juveniles to the custody of their parents.
On 7/4, an LEO on the Homochitto NF and a Mississippi Conservation Officer responded to a report of an alligator at Clear Springs CG. The officers made several unsuccessful attempts to locate the reptile. Forest staff closed the swim area due to the nuisance alligator. The LEO and the Conservation Officer unsuccessfully attempted to capture the alligator the following day as well.
On 7/4-6, an LEO and Mississippi Conservation Officers on the Homochitto NF conducted marine patrols at Lake Okhissa. The officers issued multiple violation notices for reckless operation of a watercraft, no flotation device, no boat registration, possession of alcohol, and fishing license related violations.
On 7/5, an LEO on the De Soto NF responded to a report of four females, ages 8, 10, 25, and 28, lost between Lower Bridge in Brooklyn and Moody's Landing. The four females became separated from a large group of companions while they were floating on tubes down Black Creek. At approximately 10:00 p.m., the females exited the creek to walk out to Brooklyn Janice Road but mistakenly turned onto a dead-end trail. Upon reaching the end of the trail, the females attempted to walk through the woods to the road. At approximately 1:00 a.m., the LEO, Forrest County SD Deputies, Fire & Rescue personnel, and a private landowner were searching for the females when they heard the sound of screaming. The LEO and the landowner followed the sound, and found the females in a briar patch surrounded by a swamp. The females were fatigued and suffered cuts to their bare feet, but were otherwise uninjured.
On 7/4-5, an LEO on the Homochitto NF assisted a Mississippi Fish & Wildlife Officer in addressing reports of illegal OHV use on McCall Creek. The F&W Officer issued nine state citations for illegal OHV use. Later that day, the LEO assisted Franklin County SD with medical evacuations of individuals who were burned when a metal can of Coleman camp fuel exploded near the Homochitto Camps. The LEO also contacted multiple individuals along several creeks regarding ATV operation and alcohol use regulations.
On 7/5, an LEO on the Tombigbee NF responded to an anonymous report received by Chickasaw SD of a sex offender at a beach in the Davis Lake Recreational Area. After further investigation, two individuals were placed under arrest for being sex offenders within a prohibited specific area; an additional two individuals were placed under arrest for driving while impaired. The individuals were transported to the Chickasaw County Jail.
NFs in North Carolina -On 6/16, Park Rangers arrested a North Carolina parole violator at a California State Park campground in Southern California. The man was originally a resident of North Carolina and a landowner adjacent to the Pisgah RD. In 2009, the man, who has a long history of violence, accosted several FS surveyors who were in the process of conducting boundary line maintenance. Due to the man’s behavior, the surveyors were forced to leave the area. Several LEOs later accompanied the surveyors back to the site. The man again threatened the FS surveyors as well as the LEOs, which ultimately resulted in an armed standoff with them. As a result of his actions, the man was indicted and found guilty of related charges; he was sentenced to serve three years in prison. Upon release from prison, the man absconded from parole prompting employees to use additional precautions while working in the man’s residential area in a remote area where FS and private lands are interspersed.
On 6/29, LEOs on the Pisgah RD investigated numerous reports of larceny from motor vehicles, many of which had been left unlocked while parked in campsites. One theft victim reported the loss of a prune cake. The LEOs searched adjacent areas including comfort stations but were unable to locate a suspect.
On 6/30, an off-duty LEO responded to a report of a man attempting suicide at a popular day use area on the adjacent Grandfather RD. As a result of an early morning call to 911 regarding the man, Burke County SD Deputies, nearby NPS Rangers, and North Carolina HP responded to the scene where a prolonged armed standoff then ensued. Officers were eventually able to disarm the man and place him under arrest.
Ouachita NF -On 7/2, the District 16 Drug Task Force requested an LEO to assist in the execution of search warrants on the Choctaw RD. As a result, six individuals were placed under arrest for illegal manufacturing of alcohol (moonshine), manufacturing an explosive device (hand grenade), possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
On 7/5, LEOs conducted vehicle safety checkpoints at Albert Pike Recreation Area and Fish Hatchery Road on the Caddo/Womble RD. The LEOs issued numerous citations for alcohol related offenses; one individual was placed under arrest for driving while impaired.
On 7/5, an LEO on the Tiak RD issued citations to approximately 30 individuals for drinking alcohol in public at the Mountain Fork River in the Presbyterian Falls Day Use Area.
On 7/5, an LEO on the Fourche RD conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling left of center on a roadway. After further investigation, the LEO placed the driver under arrest for driving while impaired.
On 7/5, an LEO on the Womble RD assisted an Arkansas Game & Fish Officer with transporting a man to jail. The AGFC Officer was conducting boat patrol on Lake Ouachita when he contacted the man and placed him under arrest for a felony warrant issued for theft.
REGION 9
Allegheny NF - On 7/4-6, an LEO on the Bradford RD and Pennsylvania SP investigated reports of a vehicle stolen from Red Bridge CG, and a burglary at Kiasutha CG. The LEO and SP also responded to a dispute between an individual and the campground host over the use of a golf cart at Dewdrop CG. Throughout the weekend, the LEO issued violation notices and written warnings to individuals for operating a motor vehicle off-trail, operating an ATV while not wearing a helmet, unregistered ATV, no ATV insurance, and possession of a controlled substance.
Huron-Manistee NF -On 7/6, an LEO/K9 team on the Mio RD responded to an FS Recreation employee’s report of individuals in several vehicles in a closed area; the gate to the area had been dismantled and was blocking the road. Upon seeing the employee, the individuals quickly left the area. The employee documented the vehicles’ license plates and directions of travel. That information enabled the LEO/K9 team and Oscoda County SD to locate and conduct traffic stops on all three vehicles. The LEO issued three violation notices to the individuals for operating a motor vehicle in a closed area, and possession of a controlled substance.
On 7/6, an LEO/K9 team on the Mio RD assisted Oscoda County SD Deputies in locating a man who called 911 to report he became stuck after walking into what he described as quicksand in a swampy area near the AuSable River. District Recreation and Fire staff assisted the LEO and Deputies by providing rope, cutting a clear work area, and laying down planks to stand on while recovering the man. The LEO, District employees, and Deputies then pulled the man from the swampy area.
Monongahela NF -On 7/9, an LEO on the Gauley RD assisted West Virginia SP with marijuana eradication in Nicholas County. A total of 363 marijuana plants were eradicated from three separate marijuana grow sites on private lands adjacent to the Forest boundary. The SP is conducting the ongoing investigation.
On 7/10-11, an LEO on the Gauley RD assisted West Virginia SP with marijuana eradication in Pocahontas County. A total of 200 marijuana plants in two separate grow sites were eradicated on private lands adjacent to the Forest boundary. The West Virginia SP is continuing the investigation.
Wayne NF -On 7/12, an LEO/K9 team on the Marietta RD responded to Leith Run CG where the host received reports of six individuals causing a disturbance, and cursing loudly; one of the individuals reportedly threatened to shoot another. The LEO contacted the individuals and secured a 9 mm handgun from them. The individuals admitted to creating a disturbance but denied anyone had been threatened. The LEO issued violation notices to the six individuals for disorderly conduct.
White Mountain NF - On 7/4, a four-year-old boy was camping with his family at Covered Bridge CG on the Saco RD when he fell backwards into a fire ring at their site. The fire ring contained a smoldering fire and hot coals. The boy’s family did not report the incident to the campground host but immediately began to transport the boy via private vehicle to the hospital. The family called 911 when they became stuck in busy holiday traffic before reaching the hospital. Conway Fire & Rescue personnel located the family and transported the boy to Memorial Hospital. Hospital staff transferred the boy to Shriners Hospital in Boston, MA for treatment of burns on one of his hands and the back of a leg.
On 7/6, Saco Ranger Station employees received a report of three juveniles who left their campsite to go inner-tubing on the Swift River but were four hours overdue for their scheduled pick-up time. The juveniles were camping with their mother at Jigger Johnson CG on the Saco RD. The LEO conducted an interview with the mother to determine the juveniles’ itinerary, equipment, and swimming ability. A hasty search then located the three juveniles walking from the woods adjacent to the Swift River along the Kancamagus Highway.
On 7/8, an LEO on the Pemigewasset RD was requested to assist a Lincoln PD Officer with serving a felony arrest warrant in an area adjacent to the Forest. The LEO and the Police Officer LEO located and contacted the individual. The Police Officer placed the individual under arrest and transported him to the Lincoln PD Station.
On 7/12, an LEO on the Pemigewasset RD and a volunteer from the Forest Backcountry team responded to reports of an injured hiker along the Falling Waters Trail. The LEO and volunteer located the hiker, and assisted New Hampshire Fish & Game and Grafton County Rescue personnel with carrying the hiker from the area.
On 7/12, a Backcountry Ranger received a report of disorderly conduct at a site within a dispersed camping area along Sawyer Pond in the Saco RD. Two LEOs and a K9 hiked three miles to the reported site. After further investigation, the officers issued written warnings to individuals for shooting arrows within a developed camping area, and possession of marijuana.
REGION 10
Tongass NF - On 7/11, an LEO on the Thorne Bay RD observed a man, known to have an outstanding arrest warrant and a revoked driver’s license, drive past him in the opposite lane while traveling through an active construction zone on Forest Highway 43. The man accelerated rapidly when the LEO began to turn his vehicle around. After several miles, the LEO discontinued attempts to locate the man’s vehicle. The following day, the LEO contacted a witness from the previous evening. The witness reported the man had spoken to her two hours prior and bragged about fleeing from the LEO. Upon investigating the witness’s information, the LEO located tire tracks in one of the man’s possible hiding spots. A few hours later, the LEO located the man in the community of Whale Pass and placed him under arrest for an outstanding warrant. The man was unable to post bail for the warrant, and is currently being held in jail pending arraignment. Multiple charges against him are being forwarded to the State DA’s office on the incident.
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
AD - Assistant Director
ASAC - Assistant Special Agent in Charge
ATV - All Terrain Vehicle
BATF - Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms
BLM - Bureau of Land Management
CAMP - Campaign Against Marijuana Planting
(CA Bureau of Narcotics Enforcement)
CG - Campground
DA - District Attorney
DEA - Drug Enforcement Administration
DNR - Department of Natural Resources
DPS - Department of Public Safety
DTO - Drug Trafficking Organization
EMS - Emergency Medical Service
FBI - Federal Bureau of Investigations
FD - Fire Department
FPO - Forest Protection Officer
FS - Forest Service
HIDTA - High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program
HP - Highway Patrol
ICE - U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
JCC - Job Corps Center
LEI - Law Enforcement and Investigations
LEO - Law Enforcement Officer
NF - National Forest
NPS - National Park Service
NRA - National Recreation Area
OHV - Off Highway Vehicle
OIG - Office of Inspector General
ORV - Off Road Vehicle
PC - Patrol Captain
RD - Ranger District
RPC - Regional Patrol Commander
SA - Special Agent
SAC - Special Agent in Charge
SAR - Search and Rescue
SD - Sheriff’s Department
SP - State Police
USBP - U.S. Border Patrol
USFWS - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
USMS - U.S. Marshals Service
ZPC - Zone Patrol Commander