BELMONT - Sex assault and other charges are pending against an unspecified number of individuals following an investigation into illegal sexual activity at Belmont Mound State Park in Lafayette County, law enforcement officials said Tuesday, Oct. 29.
The Department of Natural Resources began the investigation several months ago in response to ongoing complaints from citizens, according to DNR Chief Conservation Warden Randy Stark.
DNR conservation wardens on the case found advertisements on Craigslist that portrayed the park as a place to meet for adult interaction. The illegal activities were alleged to have occurred in the park's restrooms, trails and in vehicles, according to a DNR news release.
"The DNR will not tolerate illegal sexual activities or other associated disorderly conduct on its state properties," Stark said.
The investigation included the DNR's Bureau of Law Enforcement, DNR Bureau of Parks, Lafayette County Sheriff's Office and the Village of Belmont Police Department. The local Lion's Club also helped with park patrols.
Anyone with information regarding DNR violations is asked to call 1-800-TIP-WDNR or 1-800-847-9367. Callers may remain anonymous.
The Department of Natural Resources began the investigation several months ago in response to ongoing complaints from citizens, according to DNR Chief Conservation Warden Randy Stark.
DNR conservation wardens on the case found advertisements on Craigslist that portrayed the park as a place to meet for adult interaction. The illegal activities were alleged to have occurred in the park's restrooms, trails and in vehicles, according to a DNR news release.
"The DNR will not tolerate illegal sexual activities or other associated disorderly conduct on its state properties," Stark said.
The investigation included the DNR's Bureau of Law Enforcement, DNR Bureau of Parks, Lafayette County Sheriff's Office and the Village of Belmont Police Department. The local Lion's Club also helped with park patrols.
Anyone with information regarding DNR violations is asked to call 1-800-TIP-WDNR or 1-800-847-9367. Callers may remain anonymous.