Pierce Brosnan, aged 70 and residing in Malibu, California, was fined $500 and ordered to pay a $1,000 community service fee to the Yellowstone Forever Geological Fund, along with a $30 court processing fee and a $10 special assessment. U.S. Magistrate Judge Stephanie A. Hambrick handed down the sentence on March 14 in Mammoth, Wyoming.
Mr. Brosnan pleaded guilty to trespassing in a thermal area. According to court documents, around November 1, 2023, Brosnan posted photos on his Instagram page of himself standing on a thermal feature in Yellowstone National Park’s Mammoth Hot Springs area. Signs in the area warn visitors of the dangers of thermal features and instruct them to stay on designated boardwalks and trails.
The United States Attorney’s Office requested the court to sentence Brosnan to 2 years’ probation and the maximum fine of $5,000.
The National Park Service (NPS) underscores the importance of respecting Yellowstone’s thermal areas, cautioning visitors about the fragile and thin ground covering scalding water just beneath the surface. Trespassing on thermal features poses a significant risk and can cause harm to the park’s delicate natural resources.
Moreover, the park’s primary purpose is to safeguard these hydrothermal areas. NPS strongly advises visitors to exercise utmost care around thermal features by adhering to designated boardwalks and trails.
Additionally, NPS encourages individuals to safeguard themselves and the vulnerable environment by taking the Yellowstone Pledge, which involves acting responsibly, prioritizing safety, and setting a positive example for others.
If visitors observe anyone engaging in behavior that could endanger themselves, others, or the park, they are urged to inform a ranger, either in person or online, or dial 911 if within the park. Further information on safety protocols in Yellowstone can be found on the park’s website.
The investigation into this case was conducted by the National Park Service, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariel Calmes handled the prosecution.