Federal authorities are looking into a disturbing incident at San Diego’s popular La Jolla Cove after a video appeared to show a man kicking a sea lion in an encounter that quickly sparked outrage online.
The case is now under investigation by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement.
“NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement is investigating reports of a video on social media that shows an interaction between an individual and sea lion, allegedly in La Jolla Cove,” the agency said in a social media post.
Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, it is illegal to harass, harm, injure or kill protected marine wildlife, including sea lions, seals, dolphins, porpoises, whales and manatees.
Anyone found in violation could be hit with serious consequences, including civil penalties of up to $11,000, criminal fines as high as $100,000 and the possibility of up to one year behind bars.
In the widely shared footage, the man is seen walking toward a quiet sea lion resting on a low concrete wall before suddenly kicking the animal with enough force to knock it off balance.
The video appears to show the man continuing to taunt the sea lion after the kick, moving toward it in an intimidating manner as some nearby onlookers can be heard laughing during the troubling scene.
The clip has since drawn widespread attention across social media, with animal lovers and wildlife advocacy groups calling for accountability and justice for the sea lion.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETA, condemned the terrible act. “Assault is ASSAULT, no matter the species.
“This abuser laughed while harassing and kicking a sea lion who was desperately trying to escape,” the organization said in a statement.
NOAA is asking those who may have any information about this incident to come forward. “Investigations are most effective when detailed information is provided,” the agency said in its statement.
Witnesses are encouraged to contact the NOAA Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement immediately at (800) 853-1964 to report any suspected violations.
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