Full Breakdown
Los Angeles Man Sentenced for Animal Cruelty Involving Protected Hawk
2/25/2026, 12:56:07 PM
Incident Overview
Cesar Gustavo Diaz, a 25-year-old man from Los Angeles, was sentenced to 45 days in jail and a year of probation after pleading no contest to a misdemeanor charge of animal cruelty. The case arose from a video that showed Diaz pouring alcohol into the mouth of a juvenile Cooper's hawk at Amelia Mayberry Park in South Whittier on June 15, 2025. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) initiated an investigation after the video was reported by concerned members of the public.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Diaz's sentencing occurred on February 19, 2025, where he received credit for time served, having completed 44 of his 45 days in jail prior to sentencing. In addition to jail time, Diaz was ordered to complete 20 days of community labor and a 24-session animal cruelty counseling program. He faces a five-year ban on possessing animals and a ten-year ban on owning firearms. The court also imposed a fine of $220. A second misdemeanor charge related to capturing or possessing wildlife was dismissed.
Protection of Cooper's Hawks
Cooper's hawks are protected under both federal and California law, which prohibits their capture, possession, or sale. The laws were enacted to safeguard these birds, which primarily prey on small mammals and can grow to about 15 inches in length. The CDFW emphasized that harming or harassing wildlife is illegal and can lead to criminal charges.
Investigation Details
The investigation into Diaz began after the video surfaced on social media, which depicted him feeding a BuzzBallz cocktail to the hawk. CDFW officers conducted multiple judge-approved searches and identified Diaz as the suspect. At the time of his arrest, he was already in custody on unrelated charges. Diaz claimed to have released the hawk before wildlife officials could intervene, and its current condition remains unknown.
Criticism and Public Response
The incident has drawn significant public outcry, highlighting concerns over animal welfare and the treatment of wildlife. The CDFW has urged the public to report any wildlife crimes, reinforcing the message that such actions are taken seriously and can result in legal consequences.
Official Statements
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife stated, “Cooper’s hawks are protected under California and federal law. CDFW reminds the public that capturing, harming or harassing wildlife is illegal and can result in criminal charges.”
What's Next
Following the sentencing, Diaz is expected to fulfill the terms of his probation and counseling program. The case serves as a reminder of the legal protections in place for wildlife and the responsibilities of individuals in their treatment.
