two Nevada men are set to stand trial on October 8 for allegedly causing significant damage to ancient rock formations at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, a site known for its geological significance.
Charges and Potential Penalties
Wyatt Clifford Fain, 37, and Payden David Guy Cosper, 31, both residents of Henderson, Nevada, have been federally indicted on charges of injury and depredation of government property, as well as aiding and abetting. If convicted, the men could each face up to 10 years in prison, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
The charges stem from an incident on April 7 when the two men allegedly pushed rock formations, estimated to be 140 million years old, over a cliff edge near the Redstone Dunes Trail at Lake Mead. The damage is estimated to exceed $1,000.
Court Proceedings
The U.S. Marshals Service arrested Fain and Cosper, who made their first court appearance last Friday. Both men pleaded not guilty and were released on personal recognizance bonds, as reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Impact on Lake Mead
Lake Mead National Recreation Area, located just outside Las Vegas, spans 2,344 square miles of mountains and desert canyons and attracts approximately 6 million visitors annually. The area is home to numerous natural resources, including the ancient rock formations that were allegedly damaged.
Due to limited staffing, park officials often rely on the public to help monitor and protect these valuable resources. The incident has raised concerns about the preservation of natural landmarks within the park.
