“Although a criminal prosecution and jailtime may seem harsh, it’s better than spending time in a hospital’s burn unit.” –US Attorney Bob Murray The Connecticut woman who got busted for walking directly on thermal features at Yellowstone National Park in July was sentenced to seven days in jail after pleading guilty to the misdemeanor offense.
In July, Madeline S. Casey, 26, and another person left a protective walkway, approached a thermal pool and walked directly on the ground at Norris Geyser Basin. CNN reports signs nearby instruct visitors to remain on the boardwalk:
“The ground is fragile and thin and scalding water just below the surface can cause severe or fatal burns. More than 20 people have died from burns suffered after they entered or fell into Yellowstone’s hot springs.” -Yellowstone Spokesperson Morgan Warthin
Casey was ordered to pay $2,040 in fines, fees and community service. Her jail time must be served by January 31, 2022, and she is banned from the park during her two-year probation.
“Visitors must realize that walking on thermal features is dangerous, damages the resource, and illegal. Law enforcement officers take this violation seriously.” –Chief Ranger Sarah Davis
images from nps.gov