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Federal probe launched after video appears to show sea lion attack
USA Today • • nation
Key Points:
- Federal wildlife authorities, including NOAA Fisheries' Office of Law Enforcement, are investigating a video showing a man allegedly kicking a protected sea lion at La Jolla Cove in Southern California.
- The video depicts the man approaching and kicking the sea lion resting on a seawall while another person laughs, prompting public outrage and an official probe.
- San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria condemned the act as "disgusting animal cruelty" and requested a local law enforcement review of the footage.
- California sea lions are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, making it illegal to harm or harass them, with violators facing potential jail time.
- Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident or similar cases to contact NOAA Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement for further investigation.
