Tourists Cited for Vandalism at Joshua Tree National Park

Three German tourists have been cited for defacing property at Joshua Tree National Park after allegedly firing paintballs at various park structures. Park officials reported that the damage was discovered during a routine patrol on Sunday, revealing fresh yellow paint splatters on signs, bathrooms, and dumpsters. The National Park Service confirmed that at least 11 signs were affected, prompting rangers to search the tourists' vehicle, where they found paintball equipment. The tourists received a federal notice of violation for vandalizing and defacing property, as paintball markers and slingshots are prohibited in national parks. The potential penalties for such actions include fines of up to $5,000 and a maximum of six months in prison. Jeff Filosa, the acting chief ranger of the park, emphasized the importance of preserving the natural environment, stating that any alteration, no matter how minor, is illegal and detrimental to the park's appeal. Joshua Tree National Park, known for its iconic Joshua trees and stunning desert landscapes, attracts millions of visitors each year. However, the park faces challenges from climate change, invasive species, and human encroachment. In a related incident in 2021, a couple was fined $18,000 for illegally clearing 36 protected Joshua trees to build a home near the park, highlighting ongoing concerns about environmental preservation in the area.