A Washington man was federally charged after throwing a rock at a Hawaiian monk seal off Lahaina. The incident has prompted calls for better visitor education about Hawaii’s endangered wildlife.
- Igor Lytvynchuk, 38, faces up to one year in prison and $70,000 in fines for harassing an endangered monk seal.
- The incident occurred in Lahaina waters and was captured on video that went viral worldwide.
- Senator Brian Schatz has called on NOAA to strengthen public education efforts for Hawaii’s 10 million annual visitors.
- The defendant allegedly told witnesses he was “rich enough to pay the fines” when confronted about his actions.
- Wildlife advocates say prosecutions are rare and want educational videos shown on all flights to Hawaii.
Source: Westhawaiitoday
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