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Teenager pleas guilty to attacking California sea lion in viral video
theguardian.com • • nation
Key Points:
- Tyler Muehl, an 18-year-old from San Diego, pleaded guilty to violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act after kicking a sea lion multiple times in a viral video.
- Muehl admitted to approaching the sea lion while mimicking UFC fighter Max Holloway and kicked the animal four times, causing it to recoil and flee.
- He faces up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine, with sentencing scheduled for October 20 before US Magistrate Judge Jill L Burkhardt.
- Authorities emphasized the seriousness of the offense, highlighting the illegality and danger of harming protected marine mammals.
- Muehl was ordered to abstain from alcohol and marijuana and may remain out of custody pending sentencing.
