FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — A Washington state man, who until recently was the chief operating officer at a Chehalis, Washington, medical clinic, is accused of defying federal regulations by organizing a large group hike at the Grand Canyon.
A complaint filed this week in U.S. Magistrate Court in Flagstaff alleges Joseph Don Mount took more than 150 people to the canyon in October for a rim-to-rim hike.
A special use permit is required for groups of 12-30 people in normal years and large groups are not allowed, even if they split up.
Authorities said Mount spent months planning and organizing the Oct. 24 hike, despite park officials repeatedly telling him it was illegal and violated their Covid-19 restrictions.
NBC reports authorities said Mount collected thousands of dollars after charging people a $95 registration fee.
He was charged with giving a false report, intentionally interfering with a government employee, soliciting business without a permit, violating activity restrictions and violating coronavirus restrictions, according to court documents.
Mount is scheduled for a court hearing later this month.