Campers at Steinaker State Park find a man lying on the ground, making a hissing sound

by Travis Uresk

6-29-25

| Vernal, Ut. | June 26th, 2025 |

The Uintah County Sheriff's Office received a report of a suspicious person at the Steinaker State Park camping area, where a Caucasian male had entered their campsite in an unusual manner.

The deputy arrived at the campsite and saw the described male sitting around the campfire with the other campers. The male, who only provided his first name as Thomas, showed signs of being intoxicated.

Thomas tried to leave, and he was informed that he wasn't free to leave and placed into handcuffs.

Deputy Russell then spoke to a witness who provided a written statement and reported that he encountered Thomas lying on the ground in the fetal position, appearing to need help.

When the witness shined a flashlight on Thomas, he made a hissing noise and approached the witness aggressively. The witness managed to de-escalate the situation until the deputy arrived.

During further questioning, the suspect provided his full name, 36-year-old Thomas Benjiman Cover from Salt Lake City.

Thomas was subsequently transported to Uintah County Jail and booked on charges of public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and criminal trespass of state land.

Thomas Benjiman Cover may post bail in the amount of $1,080.00.

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