A professional rock climber received a life sentence on Tuesday after being found guilty of repeatedly raping a 19-year-old woman at Yosemite National Park, according to prosecutors.
The teenage victim went to Yosemite for a hike and was assaulted three times by Barrett, who was residing and working within the park at the time.
During the trial, three additional women testified that Barrett had also sexually assaulted them.
In 2017, seven years after Barrett allegedly assaulted one of the testifying victims, prosecutors stated he “intentionally climbed at a rock-climbing gym where the victim was a member.”
Upon reporting this to the gym owner, Barrett retaliated by “harassing and threatening her for several years,” officials reported.
In August 2022, he was convicted of making criminal threats related to that incident.
While in custody for the current case, Barrett made hundreds of phone calls, displaying “no remorse or regret,” according to the attorney’s office.
“Barrett’s extensive history of sexual violence justifies the imposition of a life sentence,” Talbert stated. “He exploited his status as a notable climber to prey on women within the rock-climbing community, and when his victims came forward, Barrett retaliated with public threats and intimidation.”
“This case highlights the bravery of the victims who reported these crimes,” the prosecutor added. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to investigating and prosecuting violent crimes in National Parks like Yosemite.”
Yosemite National Park Superintendent Cicely Muldoon stated the sentencing “sends a strong message regarding the repercussions of such criminal behavior.”
“It ensures Yosemite is a safer environment for the climbing community, park visitors, and our employees,” she mentioned in the attorney’s office press release.
Barrett’s lawyers stated to the New York Times that the “life sentence was excessive” and that they plan to file an appeal.
