Katie Sigmond — an ‘influencer’ with over 10M followers on her social media accounts — is in a bit of trouble. Sigmond released a video of herself hitting a golf ball into the Grand Canyon. She also let go of the club and launched it over the edge.
The confluence of her actions, a Reddit thread, and having her TikTok followers reacting led to a fine and a trio of charges. She is also going to become a trivia answer for ‘why do we need this sign’ next time you visit the Canyon.
The park service posted on its social media looking for tips.
The approach apparently worked as it turned up a solid response. It asked people for information that led to her identification.
“On October 26, an individual posted a video to her personal TikTok page showing her hitting a golf ball and throwing a golf club into the canyon near Mather Point. Members of the public helped identify the individual’s social media account. On October 27, Grand Canyon Law Enforcement identified, located and contacted the individual responsible for the incident. Charges and a court appearance for the individual are pending. Throwing objects over the rim of the canyon is not only illegal but can also endanger hikers and wildlife who may be below.
“Information from visitors is often very helpful to investigators. If you have information that could help in promoting public safety and preventing crime at Grand Canyon,…”
Sigmond was given three federal violation notices. A notice is, essentially, a ticket that is issued by non-police officers. Members of the government that act as law enforcement for the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service. She was charged with three Class B misdemeanors.
According to The Arizona Republic, the charges were for tossing items into the Grand Canyon; littering and creating hazardous conditions with disorderly conduct. The report also detailed that Sigmond was ordered to pay a $285 fine — and did so in November.
