Washington man detained after allegedly throwing rock at Hawaiian monk seal in viral video
KOMO • • nation
Key Points:
- Hawaii conservation officers are investigating an incident where a man from Washington allegedly threw a rock at a Hawaiian monk seal near Lahaina, Maui.
- Video footage shows the man picking up a large rock and hurling it at the seal, causing the animal to rear out of the water.
- The man was detained, identified, informed of his rights, and requested an attorney, declining to make a statement.
- The case will be referred to NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement since Hawaiian monk seals are protected under the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act.
- Hawaiian monk seals are protected by both federal and state law, and it is illegal to harass, feed, or harm them.
