Question: is there truth to the "Park rangers going Gestapo to enforce shutdown" story?

[backscatter712]

That seems to be the latest rumor going around right-wing circles.

An example story: http://www.eagletribune.com/local/x1442580353/Gestapo-tactics-meet-senior-citizens-at-Yellowstone

And here's the Moonie Times' version: http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/oct/8/nps-accused-gestapo-tactics-enforce-shutdown/

This story is tripping my bullshit alarm - the right-wingers of course, are screaming "TYRANNY!!!" because park rangers are telling people to get off of national parks, and rest stops, and so on. But there's always another side - maybe there's problems with vandalism because most of the rangers are furloughed, maybe it's an isolated incident.

I'm wondering if anyone's seen a definitive debunking so I can shove it in the face of one particular right-winger I'm having an argument with.

[sharp_stick]

1. My bullshit meter

goes off on any article that would actually use the term Gestapo Tactics in a headline.

Add to that that both of the sources are full of wacko bullshit 99.5% of the time I think you're safe in assuming it's bullshit this time too.

[seveneyes]

2. I suspect it's like any enforcement job

You will always get some Wyatt Earp types in the ranks. I've dealt with good, bad and ugly ranger types. No reason to believe the NPS is immune to having rogue elements in its force.

[BKH70041]

3. Pisgah Inn

I live in Asheville. The Blue Ridge Parkway is open, but there's a private business on the highway that Park Rangers are blocking from being used. I think it's wrong.

Who ever is ordering this to happen, it looks petty. Worse, it makes the administration look petty. One can say that it's not fair to draw that conclusion, but the perception is that things have gone beyond what is reasonable, and I have to agree.

[RandiFan1290]

4. Welcome Back!