Jason M. Frierson U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the District of Nevada
A federal jury in Las Vegas has convicted Wyatt Clifford Fain and Payden David Guy Cosper, both residents of Henderson, Nevada, for causing damage to ancient rock formations at Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The incident, which occurred on April 7, 2024, involved Fain and Cosper pushing the rock formations over a cliff near the Redstone Dunes Trail.
After a two-day trial, the jury delivered its verdict, finding both men guilty of injury and depredation of government property. The sentencing, scheduled by United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey, is set for July 8, 2025. Each defendant faces up to one year in prison, a fine of $100,000, or both. The final sentence will be determined by a federal district court judge, who will take into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other relevant factors.
The announcement of the convictions was made by United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Lake Mead National Recreation Area Superintendent Mike Gauthier. The case was investigated by the National Park Service and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Skyler Pearson.
The National Park Service encourages the public to report any suspicious activity or information that could assist investigations via the Tip Line at 1-888-653-0009 or online at nps_isb@nps.gov.
