Authorities Shut Down Massive Party in Upstate NY Forest

A late-night gathering deep in the woods of Sand Flats State Forest in Upstate New York ended with law enforcement intervention and a string of legal violations after authorities discovered underage drinking and plans for illegal burning.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reported that Forest Rangers, along with New York State Police, intervened after receiving reports of a large unsanctioned party in the forest on Saturday night.

Rangers initially encountered around 10 individuals shortly after 9:30pm, but the crowd swelled to more than 30 within an hour. The event had reportedly gained attention through social media, which drew even more participants to the remote location.

According to the DEC’s official weekly report, the group had brought pallets and tires with intentions to set them ablaze, a plan that they say posed "significant" environmental and safety concerns.

Recognizing the growing size and potential hazards of the gathering, additional Forest Rangers and State Police officers were dispatched to secure the forest’s main entrance. They intercepted arriving attendees, conducted interviews, and assessed the situation on-site.

In total, officers interviewed more than 20 people and issued 13 violations. Charges included possession of alcohol by individuals under 21 and illegally dumping trash on state property.

Attendees were ordered to clean up the site before leaving. Field sobriety tests were also administered to ensure participants were sober enough to drive home safely.

Authorities Shut Down Massive Party in Upstate NY Forest