The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) announced on 25/2 that Cesar Gustavo Diaz, 25, a resident of the Watts neighborhood in Los Angeles, was sentenced to jail last week in connection with an animal cruelty case involving a protected species that occurred in 6/2025.

Case files indicate Diaz captured a juvenile Cooper's hawk at Amelia Mayberry Park in South Whittier, then filmed himself pouring a 15% alcohol cocktail into the bird's beak and posted the video online.

Residents reported the incident to local authorities, prompting an investigation. However, Diaz released the bird before law enforcement could intervene.

Image of Diaz feeding a cocktail to a juvenile falcon, posted online in 6/2025. *Photo: CDFW*

During the investigation, wildlife officers executed 5 search warrants. Diaz was already in custody for other legal violations. With assistance from investigators at the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office, Diaz was identified and interviewed.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office prosecuted Diaz for misdemeanor animal cruelty and illegal capture and confinement of wildlife.

The court sentenced Diaz to 45 days in Los Angeles County Jail, 12 months of probation, and 20 days of community service. Additionally, Diaz must attend and complete a 24-session animal cruelty counseling program, is prohibited from owning animals for 5 years, banned from possessing firearms for 10 years, and must pay 220 USD in fines and fees.

Court records indicate Diaz has almost completed his jail sentence and received a reduced term for good behavior.

Cooper's hawks are protected under California state and US federal law. Capturing, harming, or harassing this species can lead to criminal prosecution.

Thanh Danh (According to CBS, AFP)