Federal Investigation Launched After Video Appears To Show Man Repeatedly Kicking Sea Lion
A deliberate act of cruelty in La Jolla, California, is fueling growing calls for justice after footage appeared to show a man repeatedly kicking a California sea lion as the animal tried to escape. NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement has opened a federal investigation into the incident.
In response, NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement stated:
“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. In the video, the individual appears to be kicking the sea lion. This is an ongoing investigation, and we cannot provide further details at this time.
“Sea lions are federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). Actions or attempts to harass, harm, pursue, feed, capture, injure, restrain (no matter how temporarily), or kill may be punishable through fines or jail time.”
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria also condemned the act of cruelty, stating:
“I’ve seen the video of a man striking a sea lion at Point La Jolla. This disgusting act of animal cruelty is unacceptable. @NOAA is investigating possible federal law violations, and I’ve asked local law enforcement to review the footage as well. We must protect our wildlife.”
California sea lions are an important part of our coastal ecosystems and deserve to live in their natural habitat free from human harassment and cruelty. Protecting wildlife begins with respecting their space and treating every living being with the compassion they deserve.
NOAA’s national viewing guidelines advise people and their pets to remain at least 50 yards, or 150 feet, away from seals and sea lions, whether the animals are on shore or in the water. NOAA also urges people to move farther away at the first sign of disturbance or agitation.
Anyone who witnesses the harassment, injury, or killing of a marine mammal should immediately contact NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement by calling its 24-hour Enforcement Hotline at 1-800-853-1964. Additional information is available on NOAA’s official Report a Violation page HERE.
NOAA asks witnesses to provide the location, date, and time of the incident, a description of what occurred, and any available identifying details. Photos and videos can also provide valuable evidence to assist investigators.
WAN will continue to follow developments in the case and joins those demanding justice for the California sea lion subjected to this senseless act of cruelty. We hope those responsible are held fully accountable under the law.
