A substantial reward has been announced for any information regarding a man observed decapitating a sea lion as part of a disturbing pattern. The National Marine Fisheries Service in California is offering a $20,000 reward to individuals aiding in the apprehension of a burly, middle-aged man who was seen cutting off the head of the deceased sea lion in late July. Subsequently, he was witnessed placing the animal’s head in a plastic bag before leaving the scene.
An image of the man involved in the appalling act has been released. Described as a white male, approximately 5ft 9in tall, bald, with a full beard, and in his late 50s, he used a hunting knife to remove the sea lion’s head at Point Pinos Beach in Pacific Grove.
In a press release, the NOAA stated, “We are seeking information on the person who decapitated the animal and any other details surrounding the incident.” The agency is offering a reward of up to $20,000 for information that leads to an arrest, civil penalty assessment, or criminal conviction.
The Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits harassing, harming, killing, or feeding sea lions and prohibits the collection of marine mammal protected species parts. Violations of the act are subject to civil or criminal prosecution.
This incident follows a previous case where a man in his 30s was observed removing the head of a dead sea lion in Bodega Bay village before fleeing on an e-bike. Similarly, a reward was offered for information leading to a conviction. The agency has not confirmed whether the individual was brought to justice.
Recently, a California beach that had become a habitat for a large number of sea lions had to be closed to visitors. San Carlos Beach in Monterey advised tourists to temporarily avoid the area due to a group of sea lions taking over the space, leaving little room for sunbathers.
The city stated, “We want residents and visitors to be safe while visiting the coastline,” while reminding people that these creatures are protected by federal law, and actions like harassing, feeding, capturing, or killing them are prohibited.