Tourist accused of harassing endangered Hawaiian monk seal arrested
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, a 38-year-old tourist from Washington, was arrested by federal agents for allegedly throwing a large rock at "Lani," an endangered Hawaiian monk seal, near a Maui beach.
- The incident was recorded on video, showing Lytvynchuk aiming and throwing a coconut-sized rock that narrowly missed the seal, causing it to abruptly change behavior; he reportedly expressed indifference and claimed he could afford any fines.
- Lytvynchuk faces charges of harassing and attempting to harass a protected animal, with potential penalties including up to one year in prison per charge and fines up to $50,000 under the Endangered Species Act and $20,000 under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
- Maui Mayor Richard Bissen emphasized that the charges highlight a strong stance against cruelty to protected wildlife and noted that Lani's presence symbolizes hope and healing for the community after the 2023 wildfires.
- Hawaiian monk seals are critically endangered, with only about 1,600 remaining in the wild, underscoring the significance of protecting these animals from harm.