Nevada Men Charged with Damaging Ancient Rock Formations

Wyatt Clifford Fain, 37, and Payden David Guy Cosper, 31, are facing trial on October 8 for allegedly damaging ancient rock formations estimated to be 140 million years old at Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The men have been charged with injury and depredation of government property, along with aiding and abetting, potentially facing up to 10 years in prison if convicted. The charges stem from an incident on April 7, where they were captured on video pushing large chunks of rock over a cliff near the Redstone Dunes Trail, causing damages exceeding $1,000. Both men pleaded not guilty during their initial court appearance and were released on personal recognizance bonds. Lake Mead, which attracts about 6 million visitors yearly, relies on public vigilance to monitor its resources due to staffing limitations. The incident has raised concerns and led to a call for increased public awareness regarding the protection of national parks.