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Yosemite National Park arrested a 19-year-old man in association with a series of "tagging" incidents that occurred in the park on May 31 and June 1, 2002. Tagging is an act of vandalism, often associated with gangs, that is used to mark territory. Michael Trevino of Riverside, California is charged with 43 counts to "destroy, injure, deface, or damage property or real property" according to the complaint filed by Yosemite National Park on June 3, 2002 as well as one count of possession of alcohol under 21 years of age. The vandalism was extensive and included rocks, trees, buildings, vehicles, and signs in the Camp 6, Housekeeping Camp, Ahwahnee Hotel and Camp Curry areas. Trevino and 17-year-old juvenile are suspects in the case. Trevino has been arraigned and released on $5,000.00 bond pending the next court date and the juvenile was released to his parents. Park Rangers intend to fully prosecute this case to demonstrate that this behavior is unacceptable in Yosemite or any National Park.
Restoration efforts are being undertaken to eradicate signs of the vandalism with as little damage to trees and rocks as possible. However, some damage is inevitable to remove the signs of tagging. (Media Relations)</HTML>