News Release
Vandalism and Thefts – Forest Users Beware!
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USDA Forest Service
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July 15, 2008
“Acts of malicious mischief have recently been occurring at the North Fork Entiat Trailhead which leads to the North Fork Trail #1437, located 33 miles up the Entiat Valley Road,” said Jeff Roundy, Law Enforcement Patrol Captain for the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. "There have also been instances of thefts at campgrounds in the Lake Wenatchee area and at trailheads up the Icicle drainage. No trailhead, roadside parking area, or campground is safe against vehicle prowlers and thieves."
The damage that these law breakers can do is serious, and law enforcement officials have some suggestions for trail users and others to avoid becoming a victim.
Nothing of value should be left in a vehicle parked in the woods. Prowlers know all the secret hiding places for valuables. They break windows and pry open trunks. A locked car is not a deterrent--nothing is safe from them. Carry your keys, all credit cards, your wallet, and checkbook with you, or leave them at home and just carry your driver's license.
Trail users are asked to check their vehicles over thoroughly before leaving the trailhead parking area for home. Look for nails under tires, check trailer hitch pins to make sure they are secure, inspect vehicles and trailers for anything unusual, and do not hide keys or other valuables anywhere on the vehicle.
Visitors should consider the possibility of being shuttled or taxied to and from the trailhead. Many visitors ask friends or relatives to transport them to and from the trailhead.
Roundy encourages all forest visitors to be especially watchful and report any suspicious persons or activities seen. Reports should include a description of individuals involved, vehicles, license numbers, the time of day, and location. A report can be made through the emergency 911 phone number, to Chelan County Sheriff's office at 509-667-6400, or to Forest Service law enforcement at 509-664-9236.
