A California teenager has pleaded guilty in federal court to repeatedly kicking a sea lion in the face and chasing the animal as it attempted to flee. Tyler Muehl, 18, of San Diego, entered the plea on Friday to a misdemeanor violation of the Marine Mammal Protection Act's prohibition on harassing wildlife.
The incident occurred on July 22 when Muehl approached the sea lion resting on a seawall in La Jolla. According to federal prosecutors, Muehl squared up to the animal as if preparing for a fight, referencing Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) fighter Max Holloway. He then kicked the sea lion four times. The animal recoiled after the second kick and attempted to escape, but Muehl pursued and kicked it a third time as it tried to flee. The sea lion stumbled on the seawall as it escaped.
The Justice Department stated that Muehl admitted the viral video of the attack was a fair and accurate recording of the events. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) investigated the incident.
"Intentionally striking or kicking a marine mammal is not only illegal — it is dangerous for the well-being of the animal," said NOAA official Eric Morgan.
Muehl faces up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine. He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 20. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) commented on the incident on social media, stating, "Assault is ASSAULT, no matter the species. Leave animals ALONE, and always speak up when you witness abuse."