Prosecutions for bolt vandalism

Hey folks, we are experiencing a spate of bolt damage in western Montana. The Forest Service, not surprisingly, doesn't want to recognize the bolts as federal "property" and has suggested we turn to the county sheriff for a remedy. Our principal concern is the danger posed by those who are loosening or otherwise tampering with bolts. We've replaced a number of first bolts, but we've also had an anchor tampered with. That anchor is critical for descending the route. Our state law contemplates the crime of criminal endangerment, but I'm wondering if others have dealt with bolt vandals and the justice system. Thanks in advance for any assistance.

Has there been a PSA about this Bolt Tampering?!?!

There should be a REAL description of "loosening or otherwise tampering with bolts".

I am not to far from Western MT.

K Weber wrote:Has there been a PSA about this Bolt Tampering?!?! There should be a REAL description of "loosening or otherwise tampering with bolts". I am not to far from Western MT.

The Missoula climbing community is all aware of the bolt tampering down the Bitterroot. (I'll let Michael disclose the actual location if he so chooses)

I've personally witnessed and removed several smashed bolts which were used as top out anchors atop the rim and for high lines.

I'm not sure what the issue is with the first bolts of routes or in what way they are being tampered with but the smashed bolts up top were completely smashed with some large tool (sledge hammer?).

If anyone wants to see some pictures of the damage bolts I have a few of the smashed hangers.

Western Montana also has a fair amount of Wilderness. Wouldn't surprise me that some of the damage is related to that (ie, big fat bolts for high lining put in with a power drill would be illegally placed).

I dimly recall that group that got rocks tossed at them in Kootenai Canyon by the local kids. Sheriff really didn't do much about it. County Sheriff might not be the best option.

Best thing to do is find out who's doing it an have a confrontatio...uhh, I mean, have a conversation with them. If you don't find some common ground, then, your "right" to place bolts is the same as their "right" to remove them.

Especially if the land manager doesn't recognize them as their property. Can't blame them, then they'd be responsible for their upkeep.

I know in the case of some state parks, the parks do recognize the bolts as park property.

Tough row to hoe. Good luck.

(Missoula born and raised)

This is purely hypothetical, however if someone were to die as a result of a vandalized bolt, could the vandal be charged with manslaughter (or something similar)?

Likewise, with the right lawyer/circumstances, could a vandal be charged with attempted murder simply by tampering with a crucial piece of life saving equipment?

(I only ask because I vaguely remember a TV crime show where someone murdered a skydiving instructor by sabotaging his parachute. And we all know that TV is real life)

Sorry I have nothing real to contribute; I've just thought about that for a long time.

Bill C. wrote:This is purely hypothetical, however if someone were to die as a result of a vandalized bolt, could the vandal be charged with manslaughter (or something similar)? Likewise, with the right lawyer/circumstances, could a vandal be charged with attempted murder simply by tampering with a crucial piece of life saving equipment? (I only ask because I vaguely remember a TV crime show where someone murdered a skydiving instructor by sabotaging his parachute. And we all know that TV is real life) Sorry I have nothing real to contribute; I've just thought about that for a long time.

If you could prove intent (to harm another person) I think you'd have a very strong case.

Why bring the persecuting gaze of legality further upon the world of vertical adventure? No good can come of it.

i've contacted ravalli sheriff's department and the county attorney and they are interested in prosecuting those vandals.they need evidence sufficent to prosicute.i'm looking for hunting partners;i know who's involved.peace.

ricktorre Torre wrote:

i've contacted ravalli sheriff's department and the county attorney and they are interested in prosecuting those vandals.they need evidence sufficent to prosicute.i'm looking for hunting partners;i know who's involved.peace.

Wouldn't a few discretely placed game cameras provide the proof? 

legally,it is considered reckless endangerment

Talk to the Western Mass Climbers Coalition. They were successful in dealing with bolt chopping.