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Channel Islands National Park Superintendent Russell Galipeau has issued a closure of Santa Rosa Island until further notice, due to concerns for visitor safety. On Tuesday, October 25, 2016, federal and local law enforcement personnel recovered numerous bundles of marijuana on Santa Rosa Island, which are believed to be linked to a maritime smuggling attempt. The National Park Service worked in cooperation with these personnel to retrieve the contraband. Law enforcement officers from multiple agencies are currently conducting aerial and ground searches on Santa Rosa Island to determine if any suspects associated with the smuggling attempt are still at large on the island. In light of the ongoing law enforcement activity, the National Park Service has chosen to institute a temporary closure. “This closure, while unfortunate, is necessary to protect the public from potential harm,” said Channel Islands National Park Superintendent Russell Galipeau. “The National Park Service will reopen Santa Rosa Island as soon as the risk is mitigated.” Park rangers searched for and recovered three campers on the island and transported them back to the mainland via National Park Service vessel. This closure will affect approximately 73 visitors who had trips booked this coming weekend on Island Packers, the park concessioner |
Last updated: October 27, 2016