Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, 38, of Covington, Washington, was arrested on 15/5 by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) agents. The US Attorney's Office in Honolulu announced the arrest, stating Lytvynchuk faces charges of harassing a Hawaiian monk seal, a protected species.

The incident, captured on video by a witness, took place on 5/5 in Lahaina. Lytvynchuk was seen throwing a large, coconut-sized rock with one hand towards Lani, a Hawaiian monk seal, as it swam in shallow water. The projectile narrowly missed the animal's head. Police from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources launched an investigation following the harassment report.

Lytvynchuk attempted to throw a rock at the seal's head. Video: WTHR

When confronted by the witness, Lytvynchuk reportedly stated he "did not care" and was "rich enough" to cover any potential fines.

Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen stated that this prosecution sends a clear message: cruelty towards protected wildlife will not be tolerated.

He emphasized that Lani's return after the 2023 wildfires offered comfort to residents during a challenging time.

"Lani serves as a reminder that compassion and the instinct to protect vulnerable creatures remain core values for people to unite", Bissen commented. The mayor also directly contacted the US Attorney in Honolulu to urge the prosecution.

Lytvynchuk currently faces charges of harassment and intentional harassment of a Hawaiian monk seal. This species is critically endangered, with only about 1,600 individuals remaining in the wild.

If convicted, Lytvynchuk could face up to one year in prison for each charge. He also faces potential fines of up to USD 50,000 under the Endangered Species Act and USD 20,000 under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Hoai Anh (Source: CNN, Fox)