Wreckless Treasure Hunter Who Got Lost in Yellowstone Must Pay $2,800 for Rescue

After becoming lost seeking for the famous Forrest Fenn Treasure, a 40ish-year-old man was sentenced to pay $2,880 for the helicopter rescue and given a 5-year ban from Yellowstone National Park. The appellate court concluded on Tuesday that he "disregarded a risk he was aware of," and cited him for reckless disorderly behavior, a misdemeanor.

The ranger gave Mr. Lantis a ticket for disorderly conduct after he reached safety, stating that he "knowingly or deliberately caused a danger of public alarm, disturbance, or peril."

Although a growing number of states have passed or are considering legislation that would allow them to refund the cost of rescues in situations of recklessness, charging for returns is still rare. Mr. Boyer, who was not engaged in the case, said that helicopter use made Mr. Lantis' rescue more expensive.

Mr. Boyer stated that the treasure hunt was less of a concern than Mr. Lantis' apparent lack of preparation.

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