Charges Filed Against Boy Scout Leaders Who Toppled Ancient Rock Formation

Feb. 1, 2014— -- Two former Boy Scout leaders who filmed themselves as they toppled an ancient rock formation in a Utah state park face felony charges for their actions.

Glenn Taylor, 45, was charged with one count of felony criminal mischief and David Hall, 42, was charged with one count of felony aiding and assisting in criminal mischief.

The pair filmed themselves allegedly toppling an ancient rock formation while vacationing through the Goblin Valley State Park in Utah.

Video filmed by Hall shows Taylor pushing over the protected sandstone formation. After pushing over the massive rock Taylor cheers and gives his companion a high five.

Taylor, a Boy Scout leader, told ABC News in an earlier interview that he should have handled the incident differently but thought the boulder was dangerous and thought it would be safer to push it over.

"The Boy Scouts didn't teach me to do this," Taylor told ABC News. "Would I do it again? Yes, with a ranger standing there. That's what we should have done."

Taylor and Hall were both removed from the Boy Scouts following the incident last fall.

Boy Scouts Say Toppling Ancient Rock Formation Reprehensible

If convicted, both men face up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Emery County Attorney David Blackwell told The Associated Press he is trying to negotiate a plea deal, even though he filed the charges Friday.

"We are taking it seriously," Blackwell said. "It's been an interesting case, mostly because of the attention it's garnered."

Taylor's lawyer Scott Card told the AP the charges were excessive.

"I understand why the state brought felony charges -- it's a definite deterrent effect," Card said. "But I believe it's an overcharge. We will be defending Mr. Taylor in court."

The two men are scheduled to appear in court for their next hearing on March 18.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.