Tyler Muehl, an 18-year-old from La Jolla, California, pleaded guilty in federal court to violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act after repeatedly kicking a California sea lion at La Jolla Cove. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California, Muehl faces a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine for the July 22, 2026, incident.
The Federal Case Against Tyler Muehl
The guilty plea follows a federal investigation initiated after video of the attack circulated on social media. According to the U.S. He reportedly held his hands in a high guard, mimicking a boxing stance, and referred to himself as UFC fighter Max Holloway.
Court documents detail that Muehl kicked the animal four times. The first two strikes hit the sea lion’s face, causing the animal to recoil. As the sea lion attempted to flee, it stumbled on the sea wall, at which point Muehl chased and kicked it twice more. The pursuit ended only when the animal scrambled over the wall to reach the beach.
Legal Consequences Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act
Muehl pleaded guilty to the charge of “knowingly and unlawfully” taking a marine mammal. Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the term “take” encompasses harassment, defined as any act of pursuit, torment, or annoyance that has the potential to disturb an animal’s behavioral patterns, such as feeding, nursing, or sheltering.
U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating, “Federal crime. Federal consequences.” Sentencing is scheduled for October 20, 2026, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jill L. Burkhardt. The investigation was handled by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement.
Reporting Wildlife Harassment
Authorities urge the public to maintain a respectful distance from wildlife at La Jolla Cove. According to NOAA-Fisheries, intentionally striking or kicking a marine mammal is both illegal and dangerous to the animal’s well-being. Anyone who witnesses potential violations of the law is encouraged to report the incident immediately to the NOAA Office of Law Enforcement at (800) 853-1964.
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