PRISON for camping out of bounds *not clickbait*

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Eric Hanson arrested, booked, camping out of bounds. National park dangers.

[@dalehuitt]

I'm sorry this happened to you Eric. I am a retired law enforcement officer and in nearly all things, you have officer discretion. Unfortunately, many new or younger law enforcement officers don't understand that concept and treat everyone regardless of the incident as if they were a mass murderer. They don't comprehend the impact their actions have and understand basic humanity and compassion. The National Parks Service and the Rangers are why I avoid National Parks with a vengeance. I had a similar run-in in a National Park where I was the subject of a traffic stop for 18mph in a 15mph speed zone. Family and friends in the vehicle (while still an active law enforcement officer), young guy who starts yelling at me for going by him 3mph over the speed limit. Asks if there are any weapons in the vehicle and then draws his firearm when I say yes. I remained calm and explained my status and showed him my credentials. Then demanded to speak with their supervisor for the behavior and pointing a firearm at someone without justification. Supervisor basically blew it off and said, "If you don't like it, don't visit a National Park." Public lands that are definitively not "for the people" and absolutely out of control behavior of those expected to set the example and uphold the law. The National Parks service, Rangers and Law Enforcement have a difficult job, but their behavior is making it far worse and turning them into an enemy of the people. Almost as if they are forcing people with their rules, permits, timed entry and such to stay out of the National Parks. You derive your authority from the consent of the governed. Many have lost sight of that fact.

[@RichRich1955]

Sometimes we're driving and try hard to obey speed limits but seriously, are we supposed to look at the damn speedometer every second?

[@dalehuitt]

@@RichRich1955 ​​⁠and not to mention 3mph over based on their radar. Vehicle manufacturers have a +/- 5mph variance in a speedometer. Law enforcement (at least at the local/state level) are taught 8-10mph leeway. In order to establish a crime or violation, you have to establish a mental state of intentional, knowing or reckless. Did you intentionally or knowingly commit the crime or violation? Were your actions reckless? 3mph over is within a manufacturers tolerance and can’t be shown as intentional or reckless. Same as with Eric’s situation. Yeah he camped out of bounds technically. But was it intentional, knowing or reckless? Absolutely NOT. People can make an honest mistake and that doesn't necessarily constitute a crime or violation. The Government can’t even establish one of the prime components of a crime ... the mental state. The National Park Service needs a major house cleaning. They’ve been able to operate autonomously doing whatever they wish regardless of the voice of the people for far too long. Our National Parks are no longer “for the people”.

[@czr323]

Have you looked up what National Park employees earn? They're miserable and take out their resentments on visitors of the park. They're surrounded by people who have the additional resource to enjoy our natural resources. While they're living paycheck to paycheck.

[@retiredpd]

I am also a retired law enforcement officer and agree completely with what Dale said. And I would add this, If I was in their shoes I would have made sure the three of you were not suffering physically or medically yourself, And I also would have made sure you got to the right place, especially due to the sun setting. To have that much contact with that many rangers in such a short time there was nothing else going on. I would have loaded everyone up in my truck and drove you that mile and a half, even if it took multiple trips. And then I would have told Eric, "feel free to put this on KZbin but make sure everyone knows that we're not always staffed this well, and not to expect this treatment"...simple. I hope these rangers read these comments. Dear Park Rangers, there are several ways to get compliance... Think outside the box and be very clear. Just my .02 cents

[@michaelb1761]

I haven't had any experiences like that myself, but I have seen some ridiculous behavior from rangers in Yosemite. Behavior that seemed to show a complete lack of backcountry experience. Behavior that didn't allow for the fact that things don't always go as planned. I also had a great experience with a SEKI ranger. She went the extra mile to help me out, and it was greatly appreciated.

[@frostcbr]

Eric should immediately begin the process for expungement. Then you won’t have a criminal record. It’s insane that you had to go through this process for camping. It should only ever be a fine and never come to a misdemeanor charge. Nonsense.

[@paulgallagher6544]

I would say a 300 dollar fine per person per night would be steep but with record kept for future infringement. In this case the fine should have been dropped. He took a plea deal correctly so reversing that is not easy I'd say not worth the hassle.

[@jesdean]

No one seems to be pointing out the fact that the Rangers made them move 1hr before dark in several feet of snow right after an incredibly draining and taxing event. The rangers literally put the lives of three additional hikers at great risk, and then ticketed them for trying to comply. Seems pretty par for the course for law enforcement these days.

[@JessicaTPeterson]

Yes, it's crazy that the judge didn't see it this way.

[@Akasha-b3v]

That was my first thought the Rangers didn't take into account that even though their permit was in order their time line emotional and physical status and ability to navigate to the campsite was completely compromised. Sue them!😊

[@QBYOUNGBLOOD]

Exactly

[@3nertia]

Welcome to capitalism where it's Profits over People!

[@bihlygoat]

That park ranger sounds like they were flaunting what little power and authority they had. I’m not saying it’s typical of all law enforcement, but I’ve had encounters where I felt like the government employee (customs and immigration) were just on a power trip. Eric you were a lot more patient and understanding than I would be!

[@ClearMountainProvisions]

I ran into a similar situation in a state forest in New York several years ago. Short story is that I got a ticket for camping too close to a trail - though I had a GPS and it showed that I was far enough away. The Ranger I dealt with told me GPS were inaccurate and then asked me if I had a tape measure. Once I said no, she handed me a ticket. Thankfully, the judge threw it out - I got lucky… So sorry you guys went through all of this…

[@jessicaturecek9446]

The thing that really gets me is how on top of everything else, how unreasonable and blatantly malicious their offer was for the plea agreement. No publication of material would be a hit for so many people - loss of a 100k project and all the residual income from the videos of the whole team, also makes it near impossible to self advocate. And then all the suggested bans from all the parks and for so long? They were really going after his whole career. And admitting that they wanted to make an example out of Eric is disgusting. Right after his friend almost died. This is so messed up. I really hope Karma is a thing.

[@Ali_ReBORN]

Dan, make a petition to appeal! We will support Eric.

[@alexwbanks70]

It's total BS. That ranger obviously has a power trip.

[@Crittery]

Sadly, it's no surprise. Our worlds gone down hill and g@me & f1sh are the animal ab0rtin1sts of our nation.

[@isabelledrolet4297]

The ranger... maybe. The prosecutor is for sure power tripping.

[@keldon1137]

I was wondering about things like that in US. Is it really the specific person at fault or US society as a whole having some weird fetish about punishing people? Plenty of people in bible belt/conservative areas focuses on punishment not resocialization like in EU. And ya folks still have death penalty. Like whole country is going thru phase like in medieval europe.

[@isabelledrolet4297]

Eric should get Devon from Legal Eagle to review the legal aspects of this whole ordeal. It would be nice to have a lawyer's perspective on this.

[@bodymindhealth4u]

Yes!!! I was thinking the same thing.

[@markbenedict3279]

Yes me also@@bodymindhealth4u

[@Bigtreesandthings]

Or he could have requested a faretta hearing and, Deny allegations in whole. (He was obviously in danger and the ranger did not help him) . They must first prove subject matter and personal jurisdiction. He should withdraw his plea.

[@hellspyro666420]

Situations like this require jury nullification.

[@jefferymaynard4744]

It is a question of malum in se vs malum prohibitum. The first being evil, or morally wrong. The second being wrong because it's a rule. This is just another example of beurocracy run amok. Tax revenue generation by means of lawfare and extortion. These kinds of governmental bullying is what started the Revolutionary War. Just wondering what we can throw into Boston harbor nowadays🤔.

[@espetor]

insane story. Insane laws. We have a law in Norway. We call it the All Mans Right, or Freedom to Roam. We can hike and camp where ever we want. Doesn't matter if the land/forest/mountain is public or privately owned. It is a right. There are limitations, you must move on after 2-3 nights. You must leave the nature as you found it. In National Parks you can't fly a drone. Many european countries have the same kind of laws.

[@EvanK2EJT]

Yeah, it's VERY different here. If you decided to set up camp on someone's private property in the wrong place you could very easily wind up getting shot.

[@TheAdamReedThomas]

As a land owner sounds like theft. Uninvited “guests” will be warned and then shot🤷🏼. Europeans have no concept of US rights and are typically collective in definition and spirit. No thank you, this is why America was essentially created.

[@lamaleif7538]

Yep, Americans proclaim "Freedom" but what freedom do they really have?

[@patticarey9016]

So in Norway, someone could set up a tent on my front lawn at my house and there would be nothing I could do about it?

[@espetor]

@@patticarey9016 Absolutely not. You can not camp in someones garden. You have to be at least 150m away from closest house. This happens from time to time, mostly by tourists who misunderstand the rules.

[@ARider8104]

I had a similar incident happen to me, I always tried to be a good steward to the environment and national parks, including leave no trace, but my interaction with park rangers has ruined camping for me for the last few years and honestly changed my outlook on law enforcement and the courts in general.

[@ixxxdeathbatxxxi]

NPS rangers pulled up on me tying para cord around a tree for a tarp in snowy conditions. They demanded I show my hands and keep them out and instead of educating me on what I did wrong they just flexed their power and really left a bad taste in my mouth as well.

[@mikemclean2449]

​@@ixxxdeathbatxxxiummm what's the law about paracord and trees?

[@mtbkmaniac1]

I was group leader on a 3 day trip. We started late! We had my friends father of about 70 years. He had a rock fall on his ankle just as we reached the Tonto Trail East, having gone down Hermits trail. He was having trouble walking. We still had miles to get to our camp when the light ran out! We decided to camp on the trail. The next morning after getting water at Salt Springs, we hiked to Indian Gardens. Myself and another went ahead a few turns of the other four to set up 2nd camp. The ranger contacted us and was furious that we separated from the group until we pointed out that they were just 2 turns away. Then I mentioned that it was because we had an injury in our party and wanted to set up camp for him. I also said that we didn't make it to camp due to the injury and camped on the trail. He said "I bet I can find where you deficated!" He then saw the age of our friends father and stormed away! I want to add. Bring Ibuprofen! That was used to reduce swelling and allowed him to finish. Luckily what happened to you, didn't happen to us! I shared this with 2 friends involved. Omg! Sorry for your experience!

[@amy-freebirdp7869]

This makes me feel like we should all go out and film in a National Park and post it. I mean, we, the people, own these parks. We, as individuals, shouldn't need a permit to film in a park. It's absolutely ridiculous. So glad you both have survived this ordeal. You followed the rules and instructions in a very stressful situation.

[@rachaelsorsabal551]

I watched Eric’s video on this and was stunned. I’m glad you, Dan, are also giving this air time. It truly bothers me that Eric now has a criminal record and this could seriously impact his ability to visit other countries and create content on international travel😊

[@kaspersergej]

The real sad story here is that he couldn't defend himself against stupidity.

[@cathiecollins7320]

Well Dan, you can still contribute to Eric's fine❤

[@CJames789]

My daughter and I were camping in the painted desert, well we were supposed to. It was getting late; we had zero phone service and couldn't find the exact campsite. It had rained and our feet were literally sinking in the dirt. We decided to turn around and go back to the car. We had regretted not just throwing our tents out where we were. Now I don't! Thank you for this!

[@susanvanhouten8307]

The first time I heard about this it reminded me of Jon Conti's story about how he hit the SOS button. In his eyes he couldn't safely do what the local responding police department wanted him to do and then got blasted by the police department on their Facebook page. The post and comments point blank called him out as a KZbinr and taking stupid risks for video viewership. Episode 154 (Sep 5) on the Live Ultralight Podcast discusses this situation.

[@chrislrob]

That is what it reminded me of, too.

[@heatherstorm2049]

This is especially crazy because AZT hikers camp in that area all the time without permits, hell a lot of them sleep right outside the store. This is someone making an "example" of you.

[@robertdl]

This is another example of National Park Employees trying to treat National Parks like their own little private kingdoms instead of acting like servants of the people.

[@havegregory]

Crappy deal. Unfortunately, the law only cares about the law. However, the right thing for them to do would have been to give you a written warning and leave it at that. Just because they could prosecute doesn't mean they should!

[@amyjones-lonestarhoosier2029]

As busy as the parks are and as much as the government doesn’t want us to be out and about and thinking for ourselves, it sounds right on point. They want to deter us from doing things on our own and learning how to service without them.

[@keldon1137]

I was wondering about things like that in US. Is it really the government fault or US society as a whole having some weird fetish about punishing people? Plenty of people in bible belt/conservative areas focuses on punishment not resocialization like in EU. And ya folks still have death penalty. Like whole country is going thru phase like in medieval europe.

[@48ford8n]

My own personal experience with the NPS in various states is that they really don’t want anyone in the National Parks. They are okay with reserving that space for themselves and for certain groups (like birding groups) to enjoy.

[@Celticninja011]

All national parks are is government reserved land they will eventually sell to the best bidder

[@heidihydrick4866]

Sadly there are those in the federal land service agencies that want to keep people out of the national parks and off federal lands. In a former job I experienced it with Tonto National Forest in Arizona. I’ve also had family have experiences as part of their careers with those types of people in federal land use agencies. And voting doesn’t apply to the bureaucratic agencies sadly.

[@tommymeyerphotography]

Thank you for telling your story. Not a good deal for sure. I was eyewitness to a camping infringement in Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia. Although the Ranger was pretty perturbed, because of the multi day violation and their proximity to the no camping allowed sign , he told them to pack up and be on their way. That’s what they did. No tickets just a firm word. Things certainly could’ve been handled different in your case. Especially with the circumstances and the time of year.

[@monicajay2406]

He admits he made a big mistake. The consequence is quite severe for his crime. However, rules are rules. If exceptions are made for one, then where will the mayhem end. I’m glad you all are safe. Rescues under these extreme conditions can be dangerous for all involved. The rangers just want to go home safely to their families. Wish you luck with this ordeal. I know of folk that went to jail for doing far less. One year probation and some type of wilderness safety and sensitivity training would be a more appropriate punishment. Again good luck!!

[@buhaw12]

On the way into the canyon, the rangers warned them their itinerary was aggressive. Given what happened to Dan, I think it’s more appropriate to call it reckless. Dan was struggling the day before but they proceeded up anyway. I think the ticket and subsequent prosecution is less about camping out of bounds, and more about punishing a group (of pros) that was behaving recklessly, necessitating an expensive rescue.

[@matador483]

Yours is the first reasonable comment I have seen, and you are exactly right. I like this channel, but he was warned, and they put themselves, and thus other people potentially into danger by pursuing their aggressive itinerary. That was the proximate cause of all of their problems.

[@bridgetloggan1856]

Can you have your record expunged? I know people with identity theft charges that have. Camping 200 yards outside the camping zone in the snow after an emergency is so BEYOND ridiculous. Every person involved in bringing you to trial should be fired!

[@Braymarks31]

I think the judge accomplished what she wanted. She got the word out that you will be prosecuted IF you camp out of bounds in the Grand Canyon.

[@phobos258]

Strongly disagree. what the judge is going to get is people staying away from the Grand canyon, further reducing revenue and further hurting the park.

[@AnOldGuy164]

I watched Eric's video of the situation. In it he related the following sequence of events: We were asked to move. We went sight seeing instead. We got back and were told to move again. We did not move where we were told to move. It is clear to me that Eric was being the kid who did not want to do something and intentionally misinterpreted what was said to him. It is unreasonable to believe he did not have GPS coordinates for his assigned campsite. And did not know he was in a no camping area. I suppose the court had a similar opinion. I expect that with the videos on the internet many people will look at a double crossing in the winter as tough hike where one can get assistance from the park staff who are not expecting to provide it. Probably best to take them down. I am 75 and it has not been too long since I did a Rim to Rim to Rim winter hike. Must faster with less drama.

[@Ellie-rx3jt]

Yeah not only sight seeing, but a mile and a half away *filming for commercial purposes*. The argument that they were too tired to think straight and make their way to camp rather falls apart when they had the energy to walk a mile and a half, and the thought process to be filming.

[@MrWipex]

What a load of stupid governmental control BS! What is wrong with people over there? I’m so glad I’m in Sweden where the freedom to roam and wild camp is part of our constitutional rights. That Karen judge should work with parking tickets, only.

[@tedosmond413]

America has become a police state but they just can't admit it to themselves.

[@DrunkDrynasty]

I used to use ON X Hunt all the time for hike-in fly fishing when I was living out West. I found some epic trout streams access and steelhead water with public access that many people didn’t know about. Also I think land owners appreciate you not accidentally stomping thru their cow pasture without asking. 😊

[@zanebryant7913]

No offense but they probably were not happy yall went there under terrible conditions and requested a rescue for a rabdo case.

[@DevinAdint]

Its interesting that many countries in Europe have Roam Free laws allowing you to camp anywhere. I don't know if I like the idea of camping on private property without requesting permission. However, on public land that is how it should be. So here in the "home of the free" you can't "Roam Free" without a bunch of permits that limit you in where you can go and stay so it doesn't really seem like the "home of the free" anymore.

[@wingspread7869]

Dan, I'm glad you were rescued and came away okay. Did you or Eric ever talk with those rangers after all of this so they could learn how unfair the outcome turned out?

[@nalonabrato8900]

I agree. I’d reach out to the actual NP employees Eric had contact with for their perspectives. Such BS!

[@benjaminwright-rj9xc]

​@@nalonabrato8900Such BS that a KZbin "expert" didn't have the coordinates already in his GPS, nobody else in the group had the coordinates, and nobody had the map skills to find the campground. Eric admits to talking to two people and he still wasn't sure of where the campground was. He also spent time and daylight video taping instead making it to the campground. Finally he should have known what the weather was going to be before he embarked on this trip, no one forced him to go. Eric is a touron.

[@benjaminwright-rj9xc]

Not an NPS ranger right now but I am a ranger. As a ranger my perspective is that Eric's a touron. ​@@nalonabrato8900

[@banana_is_a_fruit]

@@benjaminwright-rj9xc Is Eric deserving of being prosecuted for this event?

[@dm9078]

I was wondering where you’ve been. Good to see you’re okay. And that sucks about Eric! Smart move to get an attorney.

[@Devilstower]

It's clear that what happened to Eric is directly connected to the bad behavior of others and to rules in many states that make it illegal to profit from the commission of a crime. There have been, sadly, plenty of people who have filmed themselves doing genuinely stupid and/or dangerous things in state and national parks. When a prosecutor is handed a case that involves someone on a commercial filming permit doing something that breaks the rules, that's where their mind is going to go. They're viewing Eric the same way they would view someone who took a paraglide off the South Rim and filmed it for social media. Is what Eric did in the same category? Of course not. But that's what prosecutors and judges unfamiliar with individual KZbin creators see: someone who violated the rules and is making a profit off the trip where that violation took place. That's why their primary demand was taking down any video associated with the trip and why they were anxious to prosecute.

[@scout06171]

I gave you a thumbs down for your comment because you’re not seeing the forest for the trees. What was done to Eric is unconstitutional and illegal. He violated no Law and thus cannot be fined or imprisoned for his “offense” by rules and regulations. The reason Eric wasn’t arrested was because he broke no Law and any fine or prison time he might get from the Park Department is illegal.

[@noahhabbershaw8177]

​​​Bet what's your address then? I'm going to come camp in your front yard. I'll set up a 10 person tent and I'll have all my friends over right in your front lawn. hope you don't mind, it's not illegal right? ​@@scout06171

[@rickharding4500]

As a long time backpacker in and outside national parks, I pretty much agree with everything y’all covered on this video, but I would like to offer some thoughts. Like Eric, I mostly will not place blame on the rangers. They have a tough, low paying job and a passion for the outdoors and the National parks. On the other hand the NPS is just another bureaucratic governmental organization and we all understand what politics can do. As far as the justice system, it is kind of the luck of the draw in any given situation. From the Ranger perspective, I would like to recommend a really great book that a friend suggested I read. I did the Audible version. The book is: Ranger Confidential, “Living, Working and Dying in the National Parks”, by Andrea Lankford. It is from the perspective of the Park Rangers side of the multi-faceted issues that they handle year around. It is actually a really easy read/listen and very interesting enjoyable. Andrea was a Park Ranger. Enjoy! Love y’all’s videos!

[@kandiblick3822]

SMH...Eric so calmly telling his experience...a true gentleman, and I can tell a calm leader when stuff hits the fan on the trail. Dan...love your channel and what you do for the Bucket Ministry. Gents keep up the great work ❤

[@kenseeley3761]

Unbelievable. Hopefully the judge will have some compassion and THROW IT THE F OUT! Glad you’re doing well Dan. Really enjoy your channel. ❤️🤘😎

[@emuhill]

Don't count on it ever. Take a very close look where the judge gets his money from. It's not a justice system. It's a racketeer system. You'll get screwed over every time. Your only real protection from this is to do everything you can to not end up in court.

[@jeremyflyaway961]

That's so ridiculous. Another thing that stroke me in this story is that none of you guys that were with Eric that day propose to split the bill to help him. If something like this happens to one of my friend while I was with him that day I would definitely pay my part. That's completely unfair for Eric, he had to pay for everyone basically.

[@shawnago]

Just because they didn't talk about it doesn't mean it didn't happen

[@gander13189]

he was the guide, it was his call

[@bodymindhealth4u]

As a clinical counselor, I can attest we tell people all the time not to make big decisions in the midst of a a crisis event. The fact that you weren’t sure Dan would live or die was extremely weighing on you, and seems like it was not something that Ranger, prosecutor, or judge took into consideration. It infuriates me that “the law” / “court” / NPS did not allow for some grace and mercy. I’m glad God‘s justice is so much different from man’s. True, you did something wrong, and therefore it would be totally fair for you to be punished for it, but that ignores mercy and grace for the situation around the event. Absolutely immoral and unethical in my opinion to have such grievous responses to people who are trying to do what’s right. My heart goes out to you both.

[@stacytripp7885]

Amen

[@Akasha-b3v]

Completely unreal. There are entire encampments in city parks full of drugs weapons stolen items criminals etc but 200 yds off in the snow. Unreal

[@karengriswold4537]

Oh you guys! I love you both individually, but together is like a backpacking dream team. The whole case with Eric, albeit understandable, is a total waste of taxpayers' money, and you're probably right that they were short on (actual) criminals at the time. [Eye roll] [Big sigh]. Love you two to the moon. Happy Thanksgiving. Grateful for you both!

[@kd5nrh]

More like they were short on convenient criminals right in front of them. Guaranteed, somewhere in the park, there was something more serious going on, but it was somewhere they couldn't drive to so they would have had to put in some actual effort to go deal with that.

[@galinswigart]

40:00 Eric hit it on the head. I think it is 100% intentional that the National Park Service wants people vlogging with a mirrorless camera to pay the same price and go through the same process a full film crew for a Hollywood feature film needs to go through to film on public land. Public Land is owned by the people, the land is held for the people in public trust. Requiring that kind of fee to film on land we have a right to is an overreach, and that same mentality leads to idiotic cases like this one. It's a really disheartening thing. Our tax dollars pay officials to manage and maintain these lands, how much time and money do they spend enforcing horrible regulations like this? Anyone with a brain can see how silly it is.

[@gs6810]

I had something very similar happen to me at a park in Big Sur. They said they lost our registration (or that we didn't register but we did, and we paid.). I had to go to court, they reduced it to a $300 fine but I got a misdemeanor. That impacted my job prospects due to background checks. After a few years I went through the process of getting it expunged. Absolutely ridiculous.

[@lanecountybigfooters5716]

Last weekend we got lost on top of a mountain, drove around for a few hours trying to figure out what to do, took a road that looked like it would get us back to the highway. Ended up behind a locked gate, at the bottom of a big hill, in the pitch dark, in the pouring rain. Had to call the Sherriff. They ticketed us for $1000 for trespassing on private property, despite there being no signs. I feel your pain to some degree, you are dealing with so much more! :(

[@lanecountybigfooters5716]

Well, WE got good news, hope you do, too! The Sheriff ended up driving the roads, saw signs hidden and gates cut open, and knew we didn't do it. So he reduced the ticket to a warning and no fine. Whew! Thank you, officer!!!

[@unperdants]

@@lanecountybigfooters5716 Glad to hear it worked out. Worth saying that in the UK - even in England where there is no "right to roam" - the worst you can possibly get is being asked to move on. That's it.

[@BobbyWParkerJr]

It is obvious. They wanted to make an example of you. You have a KZbin following and now we are all warned. it is classic!

[@Starkraven100]

There is definitely a movement within the Department of Interior to discourage any public use of public lands.

[@zakyrath]

This is why you should always counter sue and never take a plea deal from any government agency. That first plea deal tells you everything about the intentions of state and judge it was malicious with intent for you to accept a lesser monetary penalty plea. That also just so happens to damage your future credibility by having a record making it harder to defend yourself next time.

[@IrisWestcott]

Thank you for sharing your story. There is an important lesson here for all potential visitors to our national parks. May we all be thus forewarned.

[@mikedaigle1582]

Absolutely crazy that this happens. Honestly disgusting they will let killers walk away and yet do this for camping a wee off from the right spot. Priorities are really messed up.

[@everett022]

We need a podcast with you two talking about your outings, adventures, and gear.

[@Bill_tyler]

Eric is supposed to be a seasoned guide, he could’ve easily pin pointed the correct coordinates to the camp ground. Were y’all using the On-X app? If so, not a good demonstration of accuracy. I’m not sure why this comment keeps getting deleted, it’s not a hateful comment just genuinely curious.

[@bluered637]

Ranger told him he was okay anywhere behind the store and that's what he did. You don't sound curious, you sound like a shill

[@rofferdal]

As a Norwegian, this is baffling. We care a lot about our nature and our natural parks, but policing people’s responsible enjoyment like this is unheard of.

[@dougdekuiper3194]

I have watched Eric’s video and Dan’s. I feel personally violated for you, Eric. All legal parties involved should be embarrassed.

[@TheLongRanger]

This is a pretty frustrating video to watch. Dan @ 39:50 suggests that it would have been better to go without a permit, so that no citation could be sent and this whole thing would not happen. This neglects the fact that Dan needed SAR support for what they had thought could have been a heart attack. I would opine that hiking/camping without a permit and needing SAR rescue would have been a whole 'nother level of legal hurt and public shaming. I get that we all want to be privileged to do whatever we want to do, but National Parks don't operate that way. This trip tested what was tolerated. You fucked around with all the camping where you shouldn't, and you found out what happens.

[@holl33ta]

I agree. They all would've suffered a huge fine and court time had they been there without a permit while Dan needed SAR support.

[@brianfairweather7298]

Our gov agencies are so corrupt. Every single one of them. They are not for the people. This sucks this happened to you Eric. I'll be praying for ya buddy.

[@dirtsmiles8098]

I feel like you guys have never dealt with cops or the law, this is exactly how they treat everyone.

[@seanparsons8987]

Wow, crazy experience, I'm sorry Etic had to go through that. It seems ridiculous that the park ranger, his supervisor, the federal prosecutor, or the judge didn't use some discretion by simply asking themselves, "What was the harm?"

[@debramcclain6029]

ERIC, can your legal record be eventually expunged?

[@michelleweiss5055]

Dan, so sorry that you had to go through this experience with the law. As an ultra marathon runner, I spend A LOT of time in the GC... 6 time R2R, 2 time R2R2R @ 63yrs old! I've unofficially helped in rescues and witness many exceptions to the rules. I will offer one piece of advice to all that visit the State/national parks.... if you find yourself in a similar situation, you MUST get names of people and write down their testimony. What is their position of authority?... WRITE IT DOWN! You mentioned that one ranger suggested that it was probably OK to camp by the trail head, another said to move to the designated camping area, does ranger #1 testimony supercede that of the permit?

[@rickandpiesretirementadven9000]

Outrageous!!! I am a lifetime pass holder and I am going to send it back with a carefully worded letter. Very angry 😠.

[@cbb6433]

In my country, we'd call that judge a "someone who was wanting to get attention as a go-getter." And the solution is just "pay him/her under the table." When law enforcers and judges go beyond the spirit of the law and get so unreasonable, they're really displaying simple idiocy.

[@scout06171]

I could write a book about this, but here’s the basics: This is what happens when our Government (specifically Congress) uses organizations such as the Department of the Interior where Bureaucrats make regulations and rules they have no authority to make. Then they assess fines or penalties that ARE NOT LAW. Why does this happen? It happens because we citizens are ignorant of our Constitution and allow Congress to illegally pass legislation that creates these Bureaucracies that are run by unelected people who are not answerable to “The People”. “According to the letter of the Law”, you didn’t break any Law. You disobeyed a rule or Regulation, which is unconstitutional.

[@IAmAMeateater]

Our boy calling out Steve Willis here 😂

[@noahraisanen5224]

You guys are right. This is absurd that they would charge this. Shame on the NPS

[@TT79-]

Well at least you guys have a great story. I almost died of hypothermia on a solo 2 day hike in a storm of continuous rain downpour. It never stopped. And when i told my friends the story....they laughed?

[@christllee1]

Dan, I’m really surprised you refused Eric’s request to cover $1000 of his legal ordeal. You guys are really good buddies and look what he did for you. In light that you were excluded from the charges, and he asked you, the least you can do is to help him out with the fines. I don’t often comment and enjoy your videos separately and especially together , but you saying you’re not going to be the one to pay the $1000 just struck a chord in this situation.

[@snowcrustracer]

Why should Dan cover Eric's bill? Eric was told to move but he decided to go film more footage instead of doing what the Ranger had asked. Unreal

[@topazspivey823]

He didn’t ask him to pay his fine. He was joking with him and Dan said he would’ve paid it if he had asked him.

[@RedBellyRiverRat]

This past Summer, I stopped my boat along the river at one of my favorite springs, on State land. I was immediately concerned when I noticed a few LEO's. There was a couple who looked to be on meth (if you know, you know), both bleeding from the face from apparently fighting with each other being made to take down their tent and move along. They had been camping/squatting on land where it is not allowed at all. They had basically taken over the spring, a popular public swimming hole for families. No charges were filed. They actually drove away.

[@aw1008]

The NPS should be embarrassed. Based on displaying behaviors they don't care. Harrassing people who make honest mistakes, and then allowing people who commit harmful crimes to go unpunished. After hearing this it makes me think we should boycott the national parks.

[@teddysmith457]

It ought to be you sending him a grand being since he saves your friggin life

[@kellydiver]

I’m a disabled veteran with a National Parks pass, and I was really looking forward to visiting some of the parks next year. I even got a passport book to collect stamps. But this story makes me afraid to go now. I don’t want to make a mistake and end up in jail. 😳

[@BabyMango]

I just bought a ton of camping supplies for me and my disabled son.. and now I don’t wanna go either. If I go to jail then he is screwed. He relies on me 🫥

[@dracphelan]

This, combined with park service employee attitudes, and requiring online reservations through a government contractor, has convinced me to never set foot in a national park again. I have also started writing my representatives asking that the NPS budget be cut to only the amount they take in every year.

[@danadess]

I know you're angry, but please don't do that. Nobody wants to see a shopping mall at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, and there are many, many disgusting people in government right now that ARE willing to destroy our most precious national monuments and natural treasures for profit.

[@lorilake7613]

I made dining reservations in person at the front desk of Lake Crescent Lodge in Olympic National Park last Thanksgiving. A month later, I received a $38.00 reservation fee from Aramark on my credit card. I was charged 15 per cent on the gross of four meals, including a built in 20 per cent tip and two glasses of wine. I'm thru with National Parks. Can't bring my dogs, have to fight the crowds, rangers scare me, too many rules and too expensive. Can't share my personal park videos on social media because bad things might happen to me with all the filming regulations..

[@0ceanmachine]

I walked off to the shop to get beers and came back to "they could have been looking for something to do" In short, it sounds like "they were making up quota"

[@ghguyrur7]

25:27 best recap of our legal system

[@janiedillingham3190]

I am a paralegal. Having experienced it first-hand, I can testify that there are absolutely attorneys out there who are so gung-ho that they hammer every single letter of the law and, like Eric said, they prosecute everything! It causes more work for the Court, the Clerks, the other attorneys, and everybody else involved. It is ridiculous, it's expensive, and it makes us all want to stay home rather than get out there and enjoy the National Parks. Those parks are there for US to enjoy! Who can enjoy a park when you're scared to death you might do something wrong?!

[@panhandlejake6200]

I would like to hear from the prosecution and the Rangers - but I am not sure what info that they would actually provide. I wonder if they have had bad experiences with other "You Tubers" who have used up their good graces - particularly since it is the Grand Canyon. This case could be more "the straw that broke the camel's back". BUT, it is also possible that they just are not willing to give a break to anyone.

[@pearljohnson4365]

Hi Guys, Listening to Eirc's account of the events after Dan was rescued, it sounds like, and I could be wrong, there was something they didn't want seen and filmed at the Grand Canyon. Recheck your footage.

[@mikemiller6513]

My family and I have made it a point to try and see as many national parks as we can in our travels. I've had a dozen or so interactions with national rangers in multiple different parks. In almost every interaction, I have gotten the overwhelming impression that we are unwelcome guests in "there" park. I really, really feel like the NPS thinks of the parks as there own personal sanctuarys and if the could, they would lock the gates and keep us all out. Parks of a more historical nature do seem to be more civil to visitors.

[@Djdrunkdad]

It’s not that they don’t want people to film it’s that they want more than 1000 dollars when the content creates a whole lot more money

[@thedeafcattledog8608]

Our tax dollars, wasted.

[@SmokedBlack16v]

Eric you did a far better job than I would have. Questioning officers is no issue for me, be it politely or with an attitude. Given the situation that had unfolded and the weather conditions I wouldn't have left the trail head at all. They could either let me stay and ill be gone before sunrise or arrest me ill take it up in court, Probably not the right way to do things but o well.. we as citizens pay their salary and as the years roll on it seems more and more public servants of all areas of government seem to forget that ( including the judge with "her grand canyon"). This story needs to be spread as far and wide as possible. Any normal human with a shred of compassion would be just as pissed as Dan and Eric appear to be (as well as the rest of the people commenting)

[@heavyeagle2371]

Extreme over reach, wasted resources. Sounds like it was about the filming, I don't think it would be the same if he wasn't filming.

[@CountryB4Party]

This. Still an overreach. Instead of a fine or jail time they should require “community service”, say a YT “public service” video clarifying the importance of following camping regulations even in the off season.

[@denellebalach1200]

wow, what a crazy story. praying for you eric, that frickin sucks man. like you said just keep telling your story

[@travisquinney1739]

In retrospect never take a plea deal EVER, when they go after you it's simply because they know you would rather pay upfront rather than fight it....

[@279seb]

That’s terrible advice. Good advice is to never take legal advice from KZbin comments.

[@Direct19681]

So sorry you had to deal with this egregious display of authority. I live in Southern Arizona and have had run ins with state park/national park Rangers. One time they refused to issue me a parking permit at a trailhead because of a 6 mile hike into the designated campground. It was mid afternoon at the end of spring. They said you’ll never make it before dark. I said, that’s none of your concern. I’m completely prepared as an experienced backpacker to handle the journey. And your job is to issue the permit and tell me to have fun and be safe. Needless to say I had a few choice words for them. Since this episode, I refuse to hike or camp in Arizona state parks. BLM and Arizona Trail is where I spend most of my time. Thanks for sharing your story!

[@LarryLMelton]

Dan, This is utterly ridiculous. I am a retired police officer of 48 years. I have worked for every level of government except the feds. However, I have had many interactions working for federal personnel. This was, in part, a failure of supervision. Most every new police officer goes through a process of maturing. To guide them, a good supervisor assists them with decision-making. I worked for one of the best District Attorneys in Texas. I’ve heard him speak to new and experienced prosecutors, explaining that they are not judged on how many cases they successfully prosecute. He encouraged his prosecutors to consider whether a case should be adjudicated. He advised them to use good judgment and not make case law if their judgment is not sound. I don’t know about the judge, although I can tell you stories about judges. Still, this initially sounds like a lousy judgment on the officer bringing this to court and further bad judgment on the department’s supervision staff for not nipping this in the bud. The problem with the government today is they have adopted the Canadian and British model, with bureaucrats with little life experience applying their personal views over the law's intent. We are becoming a Nanny State. Going back to Bill Clinton’s day, there has been a movement by eco-terrorists to restrict the use of public lands. There is a group of people that control us, that want the wilderness to be free from humans. Larry from Texas

[@nalonabrato8900]

“We the People” own our public lands, and our tax dollars maintain them. The NPS is out of control. Geez, Dan! Reimburse Eric his expenses in full. He saved your life. Meanwhile, Eric will have a Federal criminal record for life.

[@dwightWSmith73]

I live 35 miles from the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. I will hike there but never overnight there. I'll drive for hours for that.

[@trspicer]

Eric is caught up in the problem of allowing commercial filming (and other for-profit uses) in National Parks. While his filming and other use is benign and he is careful and thoughtful there are plenty of others that will just come in an mess stuff up for personal gain. Because people mess things up so frequently, law enforcement gets pretty aggressive with these types of things. Unfortunate that the whoever adjudicated this didn't sort things out more thoughtfully.

[@jerrybobteasdale]

Welp, I'll be looking at the wanted posters on my local Post Office wall for his mug.

[@garrl007]

Thats unbelievable... I mean, if you respect the wilderness and are out camping, enjoying nature, and leaving no mess, I don't see the problem. If you camp somewhere and trash the place then yes, you should then be prosecuted. But not in this case.

[@icastell]

I agree with you…..the same should be applied in the cities. But it is not the case because the city mess is convenient for some politicians…..politicians like the ones behind this senseless case. Waste of public resources that can be used for something meaningful to the public

[@WolfPackM98c]

I've felt the same way about US National Parks. If you read through all the mountains of literature they require, you get the vibe you are hiking through those parks on eggshells. There are so many rules and regulations that could easily land you some serious penalties for a very small mistake. Backpacking through national parks can get so nerve racking, you don't get that same 'being away from civilization' feeling.

[@hellspyro666420]

I doubt the way they treat national parks now was the way Teddy Rosevelt meant for them to be treated when he proposed making federal parks

[@benjaminwright-rj9xc]

​@@hellspyro666420I doubt Teddy expected the visitation numbers. The Grand Canyon in 2017 and 2018 had over six million visitors each year, in 1900 the year before Teddy Roosevelt became President had a population of less than 3.5 million, and Arizona wasn't even a state until 1912. Please try and make sensible comments.

[@jefferymaynard4744]

Adjusted for inflation the National parks budget in 1920 was approximately $1,230,974. In Fiscal year 2024 the budget proposal is $3.8 billion. So yeah more visitors but also more money and resources. Per capita expenditure is actually higher now than in the early days of the NPS. So maybe it's mismanagement or perhaps it's what always happens when you put the Federal government in charge of anything, they don't give a tinker's you know what about people.

[@TheNewGreenIsBlue]

As a Canadian... this sounds like a very American story. Not to get too political... but I always find it curious that the land of free has such black and white rules for everything. There are so many rules... and the tendency to follow the letter of the law impinges upon said freedoms. I suppose it makes some sense though, as the culture in general promotes the idea that the government is the evil and ya gotta fight against the man... so people and companies will just look for loopholes like crazy which means laws are enforced. It's like you'll go to jail for publicly urinating against a wall because it's officially destruction of property. Or put in another way... because people insist upon their "liberties" and insist on their "rights" it makes the rules necessary to enforce for even the smallest little thing. I remember going to a public pool and there was a rule about younger kids being in the hot tub (for liability I suppose) and my daughter had her feet dangling in the hot tub with me RIGHT THERE and she was told sternly that was PROHIBITED because she was under the posted age. I'm like... uhh... use common sense.

[@monicajay2406]

Well written and quite insightful.

[@thisbeem2714]

Well, as a lifeguard who had to enforce that exact rule. We were liable if that child somehow fell in, or ANYTHING at all happened to them while in that area. Many parents would try to push the limit and “just feet” went to “standing on the bench up to their knees” and then put boss walked by and we go a warning because of the pool’s insurance policy. I get the “use your common sense” argument, but between people pushing the limit and the fact that I could lose my job for violating the insurance policy. It made no sense to let a kid even dangle her feet.

[@TheNewGreenIsBlue]

@@thisbeem2714 Yeah... ironic that the land of the free has its citizens chained to litigious rules. And yeah, I get the "pushing the envelope" thing. IMO, that's a product of having SO. MANY. STUPID. RULES. It's a vicious cycle. Gotta have rules because people are taught to insist on their personal rights... so they push the envelope, which then means you need more rules... And lifeguards should be responsible for safety... but it seems they're more responsible for liability than safety. Safety is their secondary job.... Avoiding litigation is their first. Meanwhile, in Japan... a country renowned for its cultural emphasis on safety, you have kids in 40-42º hot springs with their parents every night without incident. And if you let something happen to your kid... it's because you're an inattentive parent. You should see their playgrounds, super fun, and they make our bubble-wrapped playgrounds look ridiculously boring by comparison.

[@thisbeem2714]

@@TheNewGreenIsBlue You’re right about litigation first and common sense safety second. The “blame someone else if I let my kid get hurt “ culture in the States is frustrating to say the least. Parents let their kids do ALL sorts of unsafe things in the pool and did not want to listen to a young person tell them they couldn’t do that. And yeah, some of those things we had to say no to were stupid. Other things weren’t. Like, if the water is over your kid’s head and they can’t swim you HAVE to stay in arm’s reach. So may kids hopping up to gulp air in water over their heads. I mean, really? Probably they’re fine, kids are resilient, but still, you gotta watch them I that situation.

[@seanquigley8630]

In your opinion is this a bad law that should not exist, or do you think this law was wrongly enforced?

[@jerryvalentour164]

I had two trips in to the boundary waters, at to different years. When I was stopped by rangers. 1st one I did not have my permit on me for our crew to be there . I was in my pack at the other end of the portage . And the other where permit was changed and each canoe had to have a part of the permit with it. Both times I was told make it right and don't let it happen again.

[@wildwolf8983]

Dan Becker owes $1000 to Eric lol

[@bethhodge9724]

This is absolutely ridiculous “ here these guys are completely exhausted it’s dark and I’m sure they all was very concerned for their friend that is so sad! You would think these rangers would had been more compassion.” And getting such corporal punishment for something so ridiculous is unreal!! Shame on all the people that made that injustice happen, that judge and district sounds like the good ol boy system that as long as the chosen few is not suffering they don’t care if you are! Me and my kids was planning a trip to Grand Canyon after I show them this video I’m sure we won’t be going there where they treat people so unjustly 😢

[@axydlbaaxr]

The reason that you're supposed to be at a designated spot is *if* something were to happen, they know where to start looking. There was probably a bit of "we'll teach them a lesson" in the citation, as they had to use resources for a rescue. Ya, son, you got the book thrown at ya.

[@walenciak]

Having a young adult son who was recently arrested and charged with a felony, all while completely innocent, this story is very frustrating to me. Sorry Eric went through this, definitely paints NPS and our justice system in a terrible light.

[@benjaminwright-rj9xc]

All Eric does is paint his outdoor skills in a terrible light. First, they went out in these conditions without consideration of those who might have to come to their rescue. Secondly he didn't have the coordinates for the campground, nor did the other members of his party. What was the plan if someone got lost? Third he lacks the map reading skills to find the campground and we know his map reading skills are subpar because he didn't even know how far he was from the campground. Fourth, he wasted time and daylight video recording instead of making his way to his campsite. Basically Eric's a KZbin touron and not a professional.

[@unightie]

Here in Canada, we were told the river we wanted to re-cross on the way back was too dangerous. We were told we had to be ‘rescued’ and were made to stand and wait until ‘help’ arrived. During that time we got dangerously cold! Then they said we could purchase wood to get warm. Sheesh We just fired up our little stoves and made some hot food.

[@markhottman2652]

Wow, “leave no trace” turns into : COURT. (There is a story somewhere in THERE).