Tourist Charged After Throwing Rock at Hawaiian Monk Seal
A 38-year-old man faces federal charges after throwing a rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal on a Lahaina beach. His attorney said the man intended to protect nearby turtles rather than harm the seal.
nypost.comA 38-year-old tourist faces federal charges after throwing a rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal at a Lahaina beach on May 5. The incident was recorded on video and showed the man hurling a coconut-sized rock at the seal. A bystander asked why he had done it, and he replied that he did not care and could afford any fine.
His attorney stated that the man had seen two large turtles near the seal and believed the seal posed a threat to them. The lawyer said the man wanted to scare the seal away from the turtles, known locally as honu.
The tourist was arrested and charged with disturbing or harassing an endangered animal. He could face up to one year in prison and a $50,000 fine if convicted. The attorney said the man recognizes he made a bad decision. The lawyer also clarified that the man's earlier statement was "I can afford it," not the version that circulated online.
Locals confronted the man after the video spread and at least one person struck him. The monk seal involved is known locally as Lani.
Key Facts
Potential Impact
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The case may increase local enforcement of wildlife protection rules near beaches.
Transparency Panel
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