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Man Sentenced to Over Five Years for Illegally Occupying, Damaging Property in Yosemite National Park

Man named as Devin Michael Cuellar squatted in Yosemite for months, stealing and damaging property, and illegally possessing firearms and ammunition due to previous carjacking and substance convictions; prosecutors reject plea for leniency due to pattern of crime.

Overview

  • Devin Michael Cuellar, 29, has been sentenced to over five years in prison for squatting in a private residence in Yosemite National Park, causing extensive damage and stealing property.
  • Cuelllar was found to possess a sawed-off shotgun and ammunition, which he was prohibited from having due to previous convictions for carjacking and substance possession.
  • Cuellar, a known gang member and drug user, requested a sentence time served and probation, but prosecutors argued against leniency due to his history of criminal behavior.
  • The National Park Service investigation was assisted by various federal and state law enforcement departments, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the California Department of Justice.
  • In addition to the property damage, Cuellar was also accused of vandalizing the home with derogatory epithets, and various stolen items were found throughout the residence.