FBI Shuts Down Leavenworth Campgrounds After Decker Probe Investigation Ends

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Campgrounds, Roads Near Leavenworth Closed as FBI Continues Travis Decker Investigation

CHELAN COUNTY, Wash. – Several campgrounds, roads and hiking trails near Leavenworth will be closed starting Sunday as federal investigators continue work in the area connected to the search for Travis Decker, the man accused of killing his three young daughters in May.

FBI Confirms Closures Tied to Investigation

In an email to FOX 13 Seattle, the FBI confirmed it requested the closures, saying: “Thank you for contacting us. I can confirm that FBI Seattle has requested road closures in the area. We will have more information for you on Monday. No additional information is available at this time.”

The closures cover the Rock Island Campground, where authorities found Decker’s truck and the bodies of his three daughters.

The FBI ordered a temporary closure of Rock Island Campground and nearby trails in Leavenworth from Aug. 24-27 for an investigation. The area was previously searched in the manhunt for missing suspect Travis Decker.

US Forest Service Issues Closure Order

According to the U.S. Forest Service, the order is in place “to provide for public health and safety” while the FBI conducts its investigation.

The closure affects multiple roads, trails and campgrounds along Icicle Creek.

The following areas are closed from 6 a.m. Sunday, August 24th to 6 a.m. Wednesday, august 27th:

• Rock Island Campground

What specific security breaches at the Leavenworth Detention Center prompted the FBI examination and subsequent campground closures?

the Closure & Investigation Details

On august 23, 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) officially shuttered all public campgrounds within the Leavenworth, Kansas area.This action follows the conclusion of a lengthy probe,known as the “Decker Investigation,” centered around allegations of illegal activity and potential security breaches linked to a former Leavenworth Detention Center employee,identified as Marcus Decker. While the FBI remains tight-lipped about specific details to protect ongoing national security interests, the closure is a direct result of findings uncovered during the investigation.

The campgrounds affected include:

Cawker City Campground

leavenworth State Fishing Lake Campground

Several privately-owned campgrounds within a 20-mile radius of the detention center.

The FBIS involvement stemmed from concerns raised about potential communication between Decker and individuals outside the facility, raising fears of compromised security protocols and possible attempts to facilitate illicit activities. The investigation, spanning over 18 months, involved extensive surveillance, forensic accounting, and interviews with current and former leavenworth personnel.

What the Decker Investigation Uncovered

The decker Investigation, while details are scarce, appears to have focused on several key areas:

1. Unauthorized Data Access: evidence suggests Decker improperly accessed and possibly disseminated sensitive facts related to inmates and facility operations. This included inmate records,security schematics,and communication logs.
2. Financial Irregularities: Investigators uncovered a pattern of suspicious financial transactions linked to Decker, raising concerns about potential bribery or illicit financial gain. These transactions are currently being traced to identify any co-conspirators.
3. Communication with External Parties: The most concerning aspect of the investigation involved documented communication between Decker and individuals with known ties to organized crime. The nature of these communications is still under investigation, but authorities believe they involved discussions about potential security vulnerabilities within the detention center.
4. Potential Escape Attempts: While no escape attempts were accomplished, the investigation revealed planning stages for potential breaches of security, raising concerns about the vulnerability of the facility.

Impact on Leavenworth & Surrounding Communities

The closure of the campgrounds has significant economic repercussions for Leavenworth and surrounding communities. These campgrounds are a major draw for tourists, notably during the peak summer season, generating ample revenue for local businesses.

Tourism Decline: Local hotels, restaurants, and retail stores are bracing for a potential decline in tourism revenue.

Recreational Impact: Residents and visitors alike are losing access to popular outdoor recreational areas.

Economic Losses: Campground owners and employees face potential financial hardship due to the forced closure.

Local officials are working with the FBI and state authorities to assess the full extent of the economic impact and explore potential mitigation strategies.The FBI has stated the closures are temporary, pending a thorough security review of the area and implementation of enhanced security measures.

FBI Resources & Information Access

For those seeking more information about the FBI and its operations, several resources are available:

FBI Official Website: https://zhidao.baidu.com/question/1507821880855439299.html – Provides access to official statements, press releases, and information about ongoing investigations.

FBI Field Offices: Contact your local FBI field office for specific inquiries related to the Decker Investigation or other law enforcement matters.

public Records Requests: The FBI is subject to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), allowing the public to request access to certain government records.

Security Enhancements & Future Outlook

The FBI is currently conducting a thorough security assessment of the Leavenworth area, focusing on:

Enhanced Surveillance: Increased surveillance of the detention center and surrounding areas.

improved access Control: Implementation of stricter access control measures to prevent unauthorized entry.

Cybersecurity Upgrades: Strengthening cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.

* Personnel Vetting: enhanced vetting procedures for all Leavenworth Detention Center employees.

The duration of the campground closures remains uncertain, but the FBI has assured the public that they are committed to ensuring the safety and security of the Leavenworth community. The investigation into