La Jolla Cove sea lion kicking video sparks federal investigation

A social‑media video captured a man repeatedly kicking a protected California sea lion at La Jolla Cove in San Diego. Federal wildlife authorities, specifically the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement, opened an investigation into the incident. The Marine Mammal Protection Act makes harassing, harming or pursuing sea lions illegal; violations can result in civil penalties of up to $36,000, criminal fines up to $100,000 and up to one year in federal prison.

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria called the act “disgusting” and “unacceptable,” urging the police to review the footage. The Sierra Club’s Seal Society and animal‑rights groups such as PETA have condemned the cruelty and are monitoring the case. No individual has been identified, and the investigation remains ongoing.