Public access to Franklin State Forest in Franklin and Marion Counties reopened today, following a temporary closure prompted by vandalism and theft of state-owned equipment

Chattanooga, TN – According to the state officials, the closure had been initiated to support an ongoing investigation into significant vandalism and theft involving state-owned equipment.

Between July 10-14, 2024, five Tennessee Division of Forestry (TDF) bulldozers, along with a transport truck and trailer, were vandalized, leaving the machinery inoperable. The damage, estimated at over $1 million, also included stolen equipment from the vehicles.

In response, TDF closed the forest to allow law enforcement to conduct a thorough evidence collection. During the closure, three individuals trespassed in the forest, attempting to evade authorities.

However, Agricultural Crime Unit (ACU) officers apprehended them, and they now face both felony and misdemeanor charges.

The investigation, which involved the ACU, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, remained active as of August 26, 2024.

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the vandalism and theft.