Recently, federal authorities announced the indictment of a suspect accused of raping a Yosemite National Park employee last month. The suspect, identified as Nathan Baptista, has been charged with one count of aggravated sexual abuse following an indictment by a grand jury.
According to court documents, the incident occurred on May 31, 2024, when Baptista allegedly sexually assaulted and choked a female park employee after meeting her that night. The victim reported that the assault took place at a house shared by Baptista and other Yosemite Hospitality employees.
The U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of California, revealed that Baptista, a 36-year-old Yosemite Hospitality employee at the time, now faces a maximum punishment of life in prison and a $250,000 fine. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Arin C. Heinz.
The National Park Service conducted the investigation into the incident, which remains under active investigation. The victim sustained visible bruising from the assault, and authorities are working to gather more details about the case.
The U.S. Attorney's Office emphasized that Baptista's punishment will be determined by the court after considering various factors, including statutory guidelines and sentencing considerations.
As the case unfolds, authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. The National Park Service has been contacted for further details but has not yet provided additional information.
