San Diego Teen Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges After Kicking Sea Lion in Viral Video

A California teenager has admitted guilt in a federal court concerning an incident where he was captured on video repeatedly kicking a sea lion and pursuing it as it attempted to escape.

Tyler Muehl, an 18-year-old resident of La Jolla, a coastal community in San Diego, entered a guilty plea on Friday to a misdemeanor charge under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. This act prohibits the harassment of wildlife, as confirmed by the U.S. Justice Department.

U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon emphasized the gravity of the offense, stating, "Federal crime. Federal consequences."

Details of the Attack

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) conducted the investigation into the event. Federal prosecutors detailed that Muehl confessed to kicking the sea lion on July 22 while the animal was resting peacefully on a seawall.

Eric Morgan, an official with NOAA, commented on the severity of such actions: "Intentionally striking or kicking a marine mammal is not only illegal, it is dangerous for the well-being of the animal."

Authorities reported that the teenager approached the marine mammal with his hands raised, as if preparing for a confrontation. During his approach, Muehl allegedly likened himself to Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) competitor Max Holloway.

Prosecutors detailed that Muehl then delivered four kicks to the animal, which caused the sea lion to "rear, flinch and immediately recoil."

A Justice Department press release further explained that after the second kick, the sea lion turned and tried to get away, but Muehl pursued it and kicked it a third time. As the sea lion struggled to escape, it stumbled on the seawall.

Officials stated that the teenager kicked the sea lion once more and continued to chase it until the animal successfully fled the scene.

As part of his plea agreement, Muehl acknowledged that the widely circulated online video of the incident was a "fair and accurate recording of what occurred."

Legal Consequences and Public Reaction

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) addressed the incident on its social media platforms.

Assault is ASSAULT, no matter the species. Leave animals ALONE, and always speak up when you witness abuse.

The animal rights group posted this message on X on July 24.

Muehl faces potential penalties of up to one year in federal prison and fines reaching $100,000. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 20.