News Release

California man banned from Lava Beds National Monument for attempting to remove artifacts

Date: March 14, 2024
Contact: Chris Mengel, [phone]

TULELAKE, Calif. – A northern California man pleaded guilty in federal court March 5 for violating the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) while visiting Lava Beds National Monument in northeastern California.

Joseph Todero, 44, was given probation and sentenced to pay a $500 fine. He is also banned from entering Lava Beds National Monument and National Park Service lands within the Eastern District of California for five years, the maximum time allowed for this violation.

In November 2023, park maintenance staff observed Todero picking up items and placing them in his pockets in a location known to contain sensitive archeological material. The employees reported the incident to federal law enforcement and rangers responded quickly. They retrieved around 100 artifacts from Todero’s possession.

The site, part of the Lava Beds Archeological District, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is significant for its well-preserved archeological record and potential to yield important information.

Lava Beds cultural resources staff had intensively documented the site after the 2021 Antelope Fire and were able to pinpoint the location that many of the artifacts were removed from.

Archeological resources on public lands are an accessible and irreplaceable part of our nation’s heritage. Enacted in 1979, ARPA makes it a violation of federal law to excavate, remove, damage, or otherwise alter or deface, or attempt to do so, any archeological resource located on public or Indian lands. Any subsequent violations for persons convicted of ARPA may include up to two years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000.

If you see something suspicious in any NPS location, or if you have information that could aid an investigation, stay safe and tell us about it: Submit a Tip.

###

Lava Beds National Monument, established in 1925, is a land of turmoil, both geologic and historic. Over the last half-million years, volcanic eruptions have created a rugged landscape dotted with diverse volcanic features. Lava tube caves, Native American sites, historic battlefields and a high desert wilderness experience await you!

For more information about visiting Lava Beds National Monument, call 530-667-8113, emaile-mail us, or go to www.nps.gov/labe. Like us on Facebook!

-NPS-