PEEBLES, Ohio – A man accused of driving his truck onto an ancient Native American earthwork in southern Ohio has been charged with vandalism.
A prosecutor says Daniel Coleman Dargavell could be sentenced to up to a year in prison if convicted of vandalizing the Serpent Mound site, a designated National Historic Landmark about 70 miles east of Cincinnati.
Dargavell's attorney hasn't returned a call placed Tuesday seeking comment.
The Ohio History Connection owns the site. Spokeswoman Emmy Beach says a pick-up truck was driven onto a conical 9-foot Adena culture mound at the site over the Fourth of July weekend. Officials say the torn sod can be repaired.
A large snake-shaped mound likely used for ceremonial purposes was unscathed.
Officials are exploring ways to increase security without limiting public access.