Officials with the Bureau of Land Management say graffiti was found inside and outside Hidden Cave. Thousands of artifacts have been found at the cave, which archaeologists say was used by humans from 800 to 5,000 years ago.
Authorities say they've also found bullet holes in the informational kiosk and damage to interpretive sites and lighting.
Bureau of Land Management archaeologist Jason Wright says this is the first instance of modern vandalism to the cave, and it is "most disrespectful." He says the act is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
Public tours to Hidden Cave are temporarily suspended while law enforcement investigates.
Source: The Associated Press [March 13, 2014]