Wyatt Clifford Fain, 37, and Payden David Guy Cosper, 31, are facing serious charges after allegedly causing over $1,000 in damages to ancient rock formations at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area in Nevada. The incident occurred on April 7, 2024, while the two men were on or near the Redstone Dunes Trail.
According to allegations contained in the indictment, Fain and Cosper pushed large chunks of ancient rock formations over the edge of a cliff onto the ground below. This reckless behavior resulted in significant damage to the sensitive and historic area.
The indictment charges Fain and Cosper with one count of injury and depredation of government property and one count of aiding and abetting. If convicted, each defendant faces up to ten years imprisonment.
The United States Marshals Service arrested Fain and Cosper, and they made their initial court appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Nancy Koppe. A jury trial has been scheduled for October 8, 2024, before United States District Judge Jennifer Dorsey.
Assistant United States Attorney Skyler Pearson is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the National Park Service. United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and United States Marshal Gary Schofield made the announcement.
Law enforcement is urging anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward. If you have witnessed suspicious activity in any National Park location, or if you have information that could aid an investigation, please contact the NPS-wide Tip Line at 1-888-653-0009 or submit a tip online at https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1563/submit-a-tip.htm.
The public is reminded that an indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Key Facts
- State: Nevada
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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