A San Diego man has pleaded guilty to a federal charge after being recorded on video kicking and chasing a protected sea lion at La Jolla Cove beach.
Tyler Muehl, 18, admitted to violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act when he repeatedly kicked the animal on July 22 as it attempted to escape. The incident occurred at La Jolla Cove, a popular beach in San Diego.
The video of the encounter, which gained viral attention, depicts Muehl kicking at the sea lion while it rested on a sea wall. Sounds of laughter can be heard in the background from at least one other individual. Muehl continued to kick the animal as it tried to move away.
Federal prosecutors stated that Muehl kicked at the sea lion four times, successfully making contact at least twice. He also acknowledged that the video accurately captured the events that took place.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recommends a minimum distance of 50 feet (15 meters) from protected marine mammals, including sea lions and seals.
"Intentionally striking or kicking a marine mammal is not only illegal — it is dangerous for the well-being of the animal," said Eric Morgan, an official with NOAA's Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement West Coast Division, which led the investigation.
Muehl is scheduled for sentencing on October 20. He faces a potential penalty of up to one year in prison and a fine of $100,000.