Grand Jury Indicts Nashville Man for Alleged Illegal Timber Cutting in Savage Gulf State Park

NASHVILLE - A Nashville man has been indicted following an investigation by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Crime Unit (ACU) into the illegal cutting of trees within Savage Gulf State Park.

A Grundy County Grand Jury indicted Charles Trost on July 21, 2026, on one count of vandalism over $60,000 and under $250,000, a Class B felony. The indictment stems from allegations that dozens of trees were cut from state-owned property along the park boundary near Beersheba Springs to improve the view from a private home under construction.

The investigation began in April 2025 after Savage Gulf State Park officials contacted ACU Lead Agent Michael Whaley regarding suspected unauthorized timber cutting on state property. Investigators determined the trees had been cut and left on the ground. A consultant forestry firm later assessed the value of the damaged timber at $112,735.90.

Trost surrendered to authorities after a bench warrant was issued on July 22, 2026, and posted a $10,000 cash bond.

If convicted, the charge carries a potential penalty of eight to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.

"Tennessee's state parks and forests belong to every Tennessean, and protecting these treasured natural resources is a responsibility we take seriously," Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt said. "Our Agricultural Crime Unit works closely with law enforcement and local partners to investigate these cases and help ensure our public lands are protected for future generations."

"Unauthorized timber cutting is not a victimless crime," ACU Chief Greg Whitehead said. "Beyond the financial loss, these actions permanently alter the landscape and damage public resources that cannot be replaced overnight. We appreciate the cooperation of Savage Gulf State Park officials and the 12th Judicial District Attorney's Office throughout this investigation."

ACU investigates agricultural-related crimes across Tennessee, including livestock theft, timber theft, equipment theft, crop theft and other offenses affecting the state's farms, forests and natural resources. The unit consists of 10 special agents strategically located across the state, from Memphis to Mountain City, with each agent responsible for approximately nine to 12 counties.

ACU investigated 72 cases in July 2026.

To contact ACU call 844-AG-CRIME (844-242-7463) or email [email protected].

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PHOTOS: Grundy County Sheriff's Office mugshot of Charles Trost and cut timber on Savage Gulf State Park land