A California teenager is now staring down serious federal penalties after an incident in which he mimicked UFC star Max Holloway while attacking a sea lion went viral online.
Tyler Muehl, 18, appeared in federal court on August 13 and pleaded guilty to violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act’s prohibition on harassment of wildlife. The La Jolla resident had posted video footage in late July showing himself making the comparison to the mixed martial arts athlete before delivering repeated blows with his foot to the marine mammal.
According to sources, Muehl acknowledged that he “repeatedly” struck at the sea lion with his foot as the animal rested “peacefully” on the shore in San Diego. He made contact on four separate occasions, forcing the creature to retreat from the area. The teenager also pursued the animal as it attempted to escape.
The charge carries significant consequences despite being classified as a misdemeanor. Muehl faces a maximum sentence of one year behind bars and a fine reaching as high as $100,000. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 20.
U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon made clear the gravity of the offense in a statement following the guilty plea. “Federal consequences,” Gordon said, emphasizing the jurisdictional nature of the case.
NOAA-Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement West Coast Division Assistant Director Eric Morgan reinforced the seriousness with which authorities view such incidents. “Intentionally striking or kicking a marine mammal is not only prohibited by law. It is dangerous for the well-being of the animal,” Morgan stated, adding that his office handles all violations “very seriously.”
In Hawaii this past May, a 38-year-old Washington man named Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk faced federal charges after being filmed throwing a rock at an endangered monk seal while yelling at onlookers.
That case brought charges carrying potential fines of $50,000 and up to one year of incarceration. Hawaii Senator Brenton Awa was among the local officials who publicly condemned that action.
