One archaeological expert calls the recent desecration of ancient petroglyphs in La Cieneguilla a “cultural conflict,” one likely carried out by teens oblivious to the significance of the artwork, which dates back hundreds and perhaps thousands of years.

The Bureau of Land Management, which continues to investigate the racist vandalism, says it’s a felony, with penalties of up to two years in prison and $20,000 in fines for each count.

Law enforcement officers with the BLM, some with FBI-level clearance and qualifications, are working to identify and prosecute the offenders, said Pamela Mathis, manager of the agency’s Taos Field Office.