News Release

For Release: March 6, 2008      
Contact:  David Christy (916) 985-4474
CA-CC-08-39

BLM Offers Reward for Information on Clear Creek Vandalism

The Bureau of Land Management Hollister Field Office is offering a $4,000 reward for information leading to the apprehension and prosecution of vandals who damaged fences and barriers at Clear Creek Management Area.

“Some time after sunset on March 1 and before the morning of March 4, a group of suspects criminally damaged major portions of fencing and barriers southern San Benito County,” said Gerald Tuma, BLM law enforcement ranger.

 The labor and materials for the fences and barriers were paid with funding from California off-highway vehicle registration fees. The cost of the damage is estimated at approximately $40,000.

The portions of Clear Creek facilities that were damaged were in and around the Natural Research Area near San Benito Mountain and Sawmill Creek.  Due to the severity of the vandalism, a crime tips hotline has been created. Any information left on the tip line that results in apprehension and prosecution will lead to a reward of up to $4,000.  Please call the crimes tip line at (831) 630-5033 with information.

The BLM manages approximately 63,000 acres of public lands at Clear Creek, a popular area for off-highway vehicle use and other recreation in southern San Benito and western Fresno counties.

-BLM-