April 23, 2025 - BISHOP, Calif. — The Bureau of Land Management Bishop Field Office is announcing an increased reward of $4,000 for information on the individuals responsible for damaging petroglyph panels at the Volcanic Tableland, north of Bishop. The perpetrators vandalized three locations within the site.

“Those responsible have destroyed an irreplaceable part of our national cultural heritage,” said Bishop Field Manager Sherri Lisius. “We hope the additional information released will help bring the responsible parties to justice.”

The perpetrators accessed the site by climbing over a fenced area, proceeded to climb on the site and break off sections of rock. Where the damage occurred, the vandals carved obscenities that included a Nazi swastika. Rehabbing the site will be extensive.

The site is protected under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This site is one of the most significant rock art sites in the region and has significant cultural importance to the local Tribes. Violating the Archaeological Resources Protection Act can lead to felony charges. First-time offenders can be fined up to $20,000 and face up to two years in prison. Repeat offenders may face fines up to $100,000 and up to five years in prison. The law also allows federal or tribal authorities to impose civil fines. Courts can also seize vehicles and equipment used during the violation as an additional punishment.

If you have any information regarding this vandalism you are encouraged to call WeTip immediately at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463), or report online by scanning the QR code or visiting www.wetip.com. You can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $4,000 if your tip results in an arrest and conviction.


Source: BLM