The Kick streamer CrazyTawn has been fined $350 after carving ‘KICK.COM’ into the iconic landmark Horseshoe Bend in Grand Canyon National Park.
As pointed out by Dexerto, the popular landmark is a canyon that, over millions of years, has eroded into the shape of a horseshoe. It’s one of the most iconic parts of the Grand Canyon, with Tripadvisor reviewers praising its “spectacular” and “stunning” view.
‘CrazyTawn,’ whose real name is Thanh Cong Ngo, broadcast the act of vandalism on a Jan. 5 stream. As laid out in the affidavit (via The Independent), an anonymous tipster said that Ngo carved ‘KICK.COM’ into standstone on the artifact.
According to the affidavit, the carving was 36 inches long and 6 inches wide. It was also dug a quarter inch deep into the sandstone. Per the affidavit, this was “done purposefully and with blatant disregard for the preservation of natural resources.”
“The damage caused by carving this inscription into the rock is permanent and cannot be undone,” the document added.
As for Ngo, the affidavit says he admitted to the crime, although he claimed not to have realized it was illegal because there was other graffiti present.
He was charged with misdemeanor vandalism, which, according to Dexerto, could have led to a year in prison and a $100,000 fine. However, it looks like Ngo got off relatively lightly, as he only got a $350 fine.
‘CrazyTawn’ Reacts to Vandalism Drama
After going to court on April 25, Ngo provided an update to viewers via a stream. He claims that following the incident, he gained a sponsor, who even gave him a van so he could continue traveling. He also claims that he made $30 – $50,000 thanks to his sponsor.
Discussing the court appearance himself, Ngo said: “Even the judge was like, ‘What the f**k is this?’ The judge in there was looking at me like, ‘Bro, I’m sorry you’re going through this. I know there were other carvings on there, but you were live streaming this, so we have to make you pay a fine.’”
He concluded: “It was hella funny the way the judge was interacting with me. I’m free.”
Clearly, Ngo hasn’t really learned his lesson, but for other creators reading this, the lesson should be pretty clear: don’t commit vandalism for clout.
