Sea Lion Attack Plea
California Teen Pleads Guilty to Kicking Sea Lion After Video Evidence Emerges
An 18-year-old California man has pleaded guilty to a federal wildlife charge after video footage caught him repeatedly kicking a sea lion. Tyler Muehl admitted to kicking the animal four times during the July 22 incident near Ellen Browning Scripps Park in San Diego, according to Fox San Antonio.
Muehl faces sentencing on October 20. The charge stems from the Marine Mammal Protection Act, a federal law that makes it illegal to harass, hunt, or harm marine animals in U.S. waters.
Video Captured Muehl Kicking the Sea Lion Repeatedly
The incident happened on July 22 near Ellen Browning Scripps Park, a popular coastal area in La Jolla, San Diego. A bystander captured the attack on camera. The video showed Muehl kicking the sea lion multiple times. He also made additional contact while kicking at it, according to Bakersfield Now.
The footage spread quickly and drew public outrage. It led investigators to identify and charge Muehl. He did not fight the charge and entered a guilty plea, according to KATU.
What the Marine Mammal Protection Act Actually Prohibits
The Marine Mammal Protection Act is a federal law passed in 1972. It bans harassment, hunting, capturing, or killing of marine mammals in U.S. waters. The law defines harassment broadly. Any action that could injure an animal counts. So does any action that disrupts behaviors like feeding, breeding, breathing, or sheltering, according to News Channel 9.
Sea lions are a common sight along the California coast. They often rest on beaches and docks near humans. Federal law requires people to stay at a safe distance and not disturb them in any way.
Muehl to Be Sentenced in October, Faces Federal Penalty
Muehl's sentencing is set for October 20. Prosecutors have not yet said what punishment they will seek. Violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act can result in fines and up to one year in federal prison for criminal violations, according to News3LV.
The case is one of a string of high-profile incidents involving people harassing sea lions in California. Wildlife officials have repeatedly warned the public that approaching or touching marine mammals is illegal, no matter the circumstances.
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