Additional Coverage:
- California teen faces prison after viral video shows him squaring up, repeatedly kicking sea lion in the face (foxnews.com)
A San Diego teenager has pleaded guilty to repeatedly kicking and harassing a sea lion, an act captured on video that sparked widespread condemnation. Tyler Muehl, 18, from the La Jolla neighborhood, entered his plea Friday in federal court to a misdemeanor charge for violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
According to the Department of Justice, Muehl admitted to kicking the sea lion multiple times on July 22 while the animal was resting on a seawall. Authorities said the teen approached the sea lion with his fists raised, comparing himself to UFC fighter Max Holloway before delivering four kicks. The sea lion reacted by flinching and attempting to flee, but Muehl pursued the animal, kicking it again as it tried to escape.
Federal officials emphasized the seriousness of the offense. “Federal crime.
Federal consequences,” U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon stated.
NOAA representative Eric Morgan highlighted the dangers such harassment poses to marine mammals, noting that intentionally striking these protected animals is illegal and harmful.
The viral video drew criticism from animal rights organizations, including PETA, which reminded the public that “assault is ASSAULT, no matter the species,” urging people to report any abuse they witness.
Under his plea agreement, Muehl acknowledged that the video fairly represents the incident. He now faces up to one year in prison and fines reaching $100,000. Sentencing is scheduled for October 20.
Efforts to obtain a comment from Muehl’s attorney have not been successful at this time.