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Tyler Muehl Pleads Guilty to Federal Charge After Kicking Protected Sea Lion at San Diego Beach

Tyler Muehl, an 18-year-old from La Jolla, pleaded guilty to violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act after a viral video showed him kicking a sea lion at La Jolla Cove. The incident occurred on July 22, when Muehl admitted to approaching the animal with his hands raised as if preparing to fight. He kicked the sea lion four times, making contact at least twice, causing the animal to flinch and recoil. U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon stated that the crime carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine. The attack was described by San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria as a 'disgusting act of animal cruelty.' Following the incident, the California Coastal Commission is considering a partial closure of La Jolla Cove to protect the sea lions during pupping season. Officials noted that while the area is popular with visitors, intentional strikes on protected marine mammals are dangerous for their well-being. The city of San Diego is currently working to identify laws that would allow park rangers to issue tickets to visitors who violate these protections.

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