Stretch of Hatteras beach closed after vandalism

Written by WRAL-TV

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Park rangers closed a part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore near Salvo Friday after four recent acts of vandalism.

Signs at Ramp 23 said it was closed to off-road vehicles, pets and pedestrians in order to protect breeding birds.

Rangers said that off-road vehicles were driven through and knocked down signs in a restricted area three times last week. The first vandalism incident occurred June 27.

The National Park Service called the four incidents of vandalism in one restricted area "unprecedented."

Beach closures are required by a settlement between the park service and environmental groups that sued over protection of endangered species. By law, people caught violating the protective order could face a fine up to $5,000 or 6 months in jail.

NPS law enforcement is investigating the incidents. Anyone with information should call the Dare Community Crime Line at 252-473-3111.

Source: http://www.wral.com/news/news_briefs/story/5848718/

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