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Federal Court Accepts Sea Lion-Kicking Guilty Plea

8/15/2026

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Summary

Muehl Kicks SeaLion

Federal court accepted the guilty plea of 18-year-old Tyler Muehl for kicking a sea lion on July 22 at La Jolla Cove.
Muehl admitted four kicks, contacting the animal on two occasions and chasing it over the wall.
He faces up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine, with sentencing scheduled for Oct 20.
U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon said the conduct is a federal crime with federal consequences.

Summary

Muehl Kicks

A video shows Muehl kicking a sea lion while friends laugh and warn it could bite.
Muehl posted the clip online as “Max Holloway,” mimicking a UFC fighter.
The incident occurred in La Jolla, a San Diego County neighborhood where homes cost $2-$3 million and incomes average $210,000.
The Justice Department said the sea lion first sat on a sea wall before escaping over it to the beach.

History

Historical Context

In 1972 Congress passed the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act, giving the EPA and NOAA authority to issue permits and levy civil penalties up to $75,000 for illegal ocean dumping. That federal enforcement foundation underlies today’s court-ordered fine against an 18-year-old who kicked a sea lion at La Jolla Cove.

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Muehl Kicks SeaLion

Federal court accepted the guilty plea of 18-year-old Tyler Muehl for kicking a sea lion on July 22 at La Jolla Cove.
Muehl admitted four kicks, contacting the animal on two occasions and chasing it over the wall.
He faces up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine, with sentencing scheduled for Oct 20.
U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon said the conduct is a federal crime with federal consequences.

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