This week, a Michigan man pleaded not guilty to charges of entering an off-limits area in Yellowstone National Park while being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
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The Justice Department said Jason D. Wicks, 49, of Hillman, Michigan, posed a danger to himself and others when he entered the “fragile and thin” hydrothermal areas, according to Thursday’s press release.
Wicks burned his foot during the incident, CNN reported, but the incident is still being investigated.
“[T]here is scalding water just below the surface. Therefore, everyone must remain on boardwalks and trails and exercise extreme caution around Yellowstone’s thermal features,” Yellowstone officials said.
Until the criminal charges have been resolved, Wicks has been banned from both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
A trial date has not yet been set.
