News

The California Highway Patrol is requesting that prosecutors file charges against a California State Parks law enforcement ranger arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence while on duty.

CHP officer Patrick Bourassa said a citizen called police shortly before 3 p.m. on Aug. 15 to report that a ranger was possibly driving under the influence on Avenue of the Giants, near Weott. Bourassa said officers responded to the area, and located a state parks vehicle driving north. Officers pulled the vehicle over and contacted its driver, Tyson Young.

“Young displayed objective signs of intoxication and was detained for a DUI investigation,” Bourassa said, adding that the ranger was transported to CHP headquarters where he was subsequently arrested.

Bourassa said Young was ultimately cited and released to a state park supervisor. While the case remains under investigation, Bourassa said, “We will be requesting that charges be filed.” He said he could not provide any additional information at this time.

California State Parks spokeswoman Vicky Waters confirmed there was an incident involving Young, who she described as a “tenured park employee,” but declined to provide any details. Waters said Young has been placed on paid administrative leave and that his state peace officer status has been suspended. In addition to cooperating fully with the criminal investigation, Waters said State Parks is also conducting an internal investigation into the incident.

According to the California State Parks website, Young has served as the supervising ranger for Humboldt Redwoods and Richardson Grove state parks.The Humboldt County District Attorney's Office has yet to make a charging decision in the case.