These 11 New York Teens Caught Illegally Cutting Down State Trees

Did you ever build a fort when you were a kid? For decades children have been creating their own huts, treehouses and, on some occasions, a little indoor compound made with pillows and sheets. This can be a harmless activity unless you are breaking the law while doing it.

Earlier this month, nearly a dozen New York teenagers were caught cutting down trees in a State forest. The intent was to build a fort but what they were doing is illegal in New York State.

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On Friday March 22nd, according to a New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) press release, Forest Rangers responded to a complaint of illegal tree cutting at Rocky Point Pine Barrens Preserve in Suffolk County.

Following an investigation it was determined that eleven children between the ages of 14 and 16 were cutting and piling small trees and limbs to build a fort. This activity is illegal and punishable by law.

dec.ny.gov

According to Title 18, Chapter 1, Section 18-129 of the New York City Administrative Code, it is illegal and punishable by law for citizens to remove, kill, or damage a street or park tree, whether intentionally or accidentally.

Most violations are misdemeanors, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment up to 90 days. Removing a tree without a permit and damaging trees are very serious offenses, punishable by a fine of up to $15,000 and/or imprisonment for up to one year. Anyone caught removing or otherwise harming a tree should be reported immediately.

Mushroom House of New York

The outside looks insane but wait until you see the inside of the Mushroom House of New York State.

Gallery Credit: Karolyi

PICTURES: See Inside NASCAR Driver Tony Stewart's Incredible $30 Million Estate

NASCAR driver Tony Stewart is selling his massive estate in rural Indiana, and pictures show a one-of-a-kind property that is both rustic and luxurious.

Stewart's 6-bedroom, 9.5-bathroom, 19,714-square-foot residence in Columbus, Ind., sits on 415 acres of woods with a 9-acre stocked lake. There's a two-story waterfall and trout stream in the entry hall, and the massive great room also boasts an 8700-gallon freshwater aquarium.

Other interior amenities of the jaw-dropping property include a bowling alley, game area, golf simulator room and a lighted onyx bar. The property also features a large guest house and a workshop, and the entire property is a licensed hunting preserve that's rife with elk, deer and turkey.

The property's $30 million price tag makes it the most expensive residence in the state of Indiana.

Gallery Credit: Sterling Whitaker