AI Generated Image
'Unacceptable': La Jolla man who admitted kicking a sea lion faces $100,000 fine
Los Angeles Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Tyler Muehl, an 18-year-old from La Jolla, pleaded guilty to harassing a sea lion in violation of the Marine Mammal Protection Act after being caught on video repeatedly kicking the animal at La Jolla Cove.
- The video showed Muehl kicking the sea lion four times while adopting a boxing stance and referencing UFC fighter Max Holloway, with the sea lion attempting to escape during the attack.
- Federal officials and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria condemned the incident, emphasizing the illegality and danger of intentionally harming marine mammals.
- Under the 1972 Marine Mammal Protection Act, Muehl faces up to one year in jail and a $100,000 fine, with sentencing scheduled for October 20.
- The case highlights the serious consequences of harassing marine wildlife and has drawn significant public and governmental attention.
