Washington man detained over alleged harassment of Hawaiian monk seal
Updated
Updated · KOMO News · May 7
Washington man detained over alleged harassment of Hawaiian monk seal
12 articles · Updated · KOMO News · May 7
Hawaii officers detained a 37-year-old man near Lahaina, Maui, after video appeared to show him throwing a large rock at the animal.
The man was identified, advised of his rights, requested an attorney and declined to speak; he has not been charged.
The case will be referred to NOAA law enforcement because Hawaiian monk seals are protected under federal and state laws banning harassment, feeding or harm.
Is this attack on a rare seal an isolated outrage or a growing crisis for Hawaii?
Will a tourist's viral rock throw lead to a felony conviction and years in prison?