Donald L. Savage, Assaulting a Federal Officer, Massachusetts 2015

Brewster Man Sentenced for Assaulting Park Ranger on Cape Cod Beach

A Brewster man was sentenced to 27 months in prison for assaulting a park ranger on a Cape Cod National Seashore beach in Eastham, Mass.

Donald L. Savage, 57, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 27 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In February 2016, Savage was convicted by a federal jury of assaulting a federal officer.

The incident occurred on June 6, 2015, when Savage and his wife requested permission to park in a restricted lot at Coast Guard Beach, which is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore in Eastham. Park attendants granted Savage permission to park for 10 minutes, and instructed him not to go on the protected beach. However, after 30 minutes, Savage had not left the beach and the gate attendants requested assistance from a Park Ranger.

When the Ranger arrived and spoke with Savage, he refused to provide identification despite repeated requests. Savage became hostile and the Ranger requested that he sit on the ground. Eventually, Savage provided a driver’s license, but after a few minutes of sitting he got up and began a physical altercation with the Ranger. During the altercation, which was captured on the Ranger’s body camera, Savage bit the Ranger’s right ring finger causing a significant injury.

The Ranger drew his Taser and ordered Savage to the ground. After sitting on the ground for five minutes, Savage got up and again physically confronted the Ranger at which point the Ranger tased Savage. Within minutes, additional law enforcement officers arrived.

United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz; Leslie Reynolds, Chief Ranger of Cape Cod National Seashore; and Eastham Police Chief Edward Kulhawik, made the announcement today. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Ortiz’s Major Crimes Unit.

The defendant, Donald L. Savage, was convicted of assaulting a federal officer, a charge that carries significant penalties. In this case, Savage received a sentence of 27 months in prison and three years of supervised release.

The incident highlights the importance of respecting and following the rules of our national parks. Park rangers work tirelessly to protect and preserve these natural wonders, and it is essential that visitors respect their authority and safety.

The case is a reminder that assaulting a federal officer is a serious crime with severe consequences. It is crucial that individuals understand the gravity of such actions and the potential outcomes.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts is committed to protecting our communities and upholding the rule of law. This case demonstrates our dedication to holding individuals accountable for their actions and ensuring justice is served.

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