Teenager pleas guilty to attacking California sea lion in viral video

Eighteen-year-old Tyler Muehl has pleaded guilty to a federal crime for kicking a California sea lion multiple times on the La Jolla coast in July 2026. The incident, captured on a viral video, involved Muehl approaching the protected marine mammal and kicking it four times, twice in the face, causing it to recoil and attempt to flee. He admitted to chasing and kicking the sea lion again before it escaped. Muehl violated the Marine Mammal Protection Act's prohibition on harassment of wildlife and faces up to a year in prison and a $100,000 fine. His sentencing is scheduled for October 20th, and he is currently ordered to abstain from alcohol or marijuana.

A San Diego man, 18-year-old Tyler Muehl, has pleaded guilty to a federal charge for violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act. On July 22, Muehl was captured on a viral video kicking and chasing a protected sea lion at La Jolla Cove beach. He admitted to kicking the animal four times, landing at least two kicks. The video also showed another person laughing in the background. Muehl's plea agreement includes acknowledging the video's accuracy. He faces up to a year in prison and a $100,000 fine when sentenced on October 20.