TALLAHASSEE - The U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations Unit is continuing to seek the public’s assistance and is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the individual, or individuals, responsible for posting threats and vandalizing government property in the Ocala National Forest.

Several incidents at the following locations occurred during the past year.

The first incidents were discovered on the east side of Pinecastle Range. Paper signs containing offensive slogans targeting Forest Service personnel were posted in areas that were closed for public use in order to restore forest habitat.

The second incident was discovered at Bear Hole Camp, a primitive campsite near Highway 40. Here, a forest restoration sign was defaced with threats to Forest Service employees.

A third incident, discovered over the past year, involved racially offensive messages spray painted to a trailhead sign on Forest Road 9.

Anyone with information about these incidents can contact the U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations Office at (850) 523-8588 or (850) 523-8535.

The Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations Unit takes threats and vandalism on national forest lands very seriously and will aggressively pursue and prosecute those involved in accordance with federal and state laws. The Forest Service asks that the public be vigilant of their surroundings and report anything suspicious to the Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations Unit, Forest Service Ranger District Offices on the Apalachicola, Ocala or Osceola National Forests or local law enforcement authorities.

The incidents are under investigation.