Seattle Tourist Faces Potential Federal Charges for Attacking Endangered Hawaiian Monk Seal
A Seattle tourist is facing potential federal charges after being caught on video throwing a rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal, known locally as Lani, in Lahaina, Maui. The incident, which occurred along the shoreline off Front Street, was captured and shared widely on social media, leading to public outrage. A local Hawaiian, who witnessed the act, confronted the tourist and physically assaulted him, an action that has been both criticized and praised. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources has referred the case to federal prosecutors with NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement for possible prosecution under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The tourist, who has not been publicly identified, was detained for questioning but later released after requesting legal counsel. No charges have been filed yet. 
