La Jolla Teen Pleads Guilty After Viral Video Shows Him Kicking Sea Lion

SAN DIEGO, California — An 18-year-old La Jolla man has pleaded guilty to a federal charge after a viral video showed him repeatedly kicking a protected California sea lion at La Jolla Cove.

Tyler Muehl pleaded guilty to violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act’s prohibition on harassing wildlife, according to federal prosecutors. The incident occurred late on July 22 near Ellen Browning Scripps Park.

Viral Video Led to Investigation

According to Muehl’s plea agreement, he approached a sea lion that was resting on a seawall. He raised his hands as though preparing to box with the animal and referred to himself as UFC fighter Max Holloway.

Muehl admitted kicking toward the sea lion four times, making contact with the animal. Prosecutors said two of the kicks were directed at its face. When the sea lion attempted to move away, Muehl followed it and continued the confrontation until the animal escaped over the seawall and reached the beach.

As part of his plea agreement, Muehl acknowledged that the widely circulated video was a fair and accurate recording of what happened.

The incident prompted an investigation by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Office of Law Enforcement.

Federal Law Protects California Sea Lions

California sea lions are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which prohibits people from harassing, hunting or otherwise taking protected marine mammals.

Federal law defines prohibited “take” broadly enough to include harassment that has the potential to injure an animal or disrupt its natural behavior.

NOAA officials emphasized that intentionally striking a marine mammal is both illegal and potentially dangerous to the animal.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office also issued a blunt warning following the guilty plea.

“Federal crime. Federal consequences,” U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon said.

Sentencing Set for October

Muehl pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor violation of the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

He faces a maximum possible sentence of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 20, 2026, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jill L. Burkhardt in federal court.

The final punishment will be determined by the court.

Officials Urge Visitors to Leave Wildlife Alone

The case has also renewed attention on the interaction between tourists and marine wildlife at La Jolla Cove, where sea lions are frequently seen along the coastline.

Federal wildlife officials advise people to maintain a safe distance from marine mammals and avoid attempting to touch, feed, chase or otherwise disturb them.

For Muehl, the viral confrontation has now moved from social media to federal court. With his guilty plea entered, the remaining question is what penalty he will receive when he is sentenced in October.