An 18-year-old from San Diego has pleaded guilty to federal charges after a video showed him attacking a protected sea lion at La Jolla Cove. The incident occurred on July 22 when the defendant was filmed repeatedly kicking the animal as it attempted to retreat along a sea wall.
Federal prosecutors stated the defendant admitted to striking the animal four times during the confrontation. This act violates the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which mandates that individuals maintain a distance of at least 50 feet from marine mammals to prevent stress or injury to the animals.
Officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration emphasized that such behavior is both illegal and harmful to the health of protected wildlife. The defendant 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 for the offense. The case serves as a formal reminder of the legal protections afforded to marine life in coastal areas.