A Washington state man has been arrested and charged after federal authorities said he threw a large rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal on Maui, an incident that was captured on video and widely circulated online.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Hawaii, 38-year-old Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk of Covington, Washington, faces federal charges related to allegedly harassing an endangered Hawaiian monk seal named Lani in Lahaina on May 5.
Officials said the charges involve violations of both the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Incident
Federal investigators said the incident occurred along the shoreline in Lahaina, Maui, where Lani, a known Hawaiian monk seal, was observed near the water playing with a floating log close to shore.
According to the criminal complaint, witnesses and video footage showed Lytvynchuk watching and tracking the seal’s movements before picking up a large rock.
Authorities allege he then aimed and threw the rock directly toward the seal’s head.
Investigators said the rock narrowly missed Lani’s nose, startling the animal and causing her to rise suddenly from the water.
Witnesses reportedly confronted Lytvynchuk immediately after the incident and informed him that law enforcement had been contacted.
According to the complaint, he allegedly responded that he was “rich enough to pay the fines” before leaving the area.
Investigation
The investigation began shortly after the video spread online, prompting public concern and responses from wildlife protection authorities.
Federal officials said witnesses also reported that Lani remained motionless for an extended period after the incident, raising concerns about the seal’s condition and wellbeing.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, commonly known as NOAA, led the investigation alongside federal prosecutors.
On May 13, NOAA special agents arrested Lytvynchuk near Seattle, Washington.
| Case Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk |
| Age | 38 |
| Residence | Covington, Washington |
| Location of Incident | Lahaina, Maui |
| Animal Involved | Hawaiian monk seal named Lani |
| Charges | Harassment under federal wildlife laws |
Authorities confirmed that Lytvynchuk was scheduled to make his first court appearance in Seattle federal court on May 14.
Legal Penalties
Federal prosecutors stated that each charge carries potential penalties of up to one year in prison if a conviction is secured.
In addition to possible jail time, Lytvynchuk could face substantial financial penalties under federal environmental laws.
According to prosecutors:
- Violations under the Endangered Species Act may carry fines of up to $50,000.
- Violations under the Marine Mammal Protection Act may result in fines of up to $20,000.
Officials have not indicated whether additional charges may be considered as the investigation continues.
Protected Species
The Hawaiian monk seal is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world and is protected under both federal and state law.
Conservation experts estimate that only a small population remains in the wild, making harassment or injury involving the species a serious federal offense.
The seals are found primarily throughout the Hawaiian Islands and are considered an important part of Hawaii’s marine ecosystem.
Federal law prohibits harming, harassing, disturbing, or attempting to injure protected marine mammals.
Wildlife officials often remind the public to maintain safe distances from monk seals and avoid interfering with their natural behavior.
Public Reaction
The video of the incident quickly generated strong public reaction online, particularly among Hawaii residents and environmental advocates concerned about the treatment of endangered wildlife.
The case also renewed discussions about tourist behavior around protected species and the importance of respecting wildlife regulations in environmentally sensitive areas.
Officials emphasized that harassment of endangered animals can create long-term stress and health risks for vulnerable populations.
Federal Response
U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson said federal authorities intend to aggressively pursue cases involving harm or harassment of protected wildlife species.
“The unique and precious wildlife of the Hawaiian Islands are renowned symbols of Hawaii’s special place in the world and its incredible biodiversity,” Sorenson said in a statement.
“We are committed to protecting our vulnerable wild species, in particular endangered Hawaiian monk seals, like Lani. We pledge that those who harass and attempt to harm our protected wildlife will face rapid accountability in federal court.”
The case remains ongoing as prosecutors continue reviewing evidence connected to the incident.
FAQs
Who was charged in the monk seal case?
Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk was federally charged.
What animal was targeted in the incident?
An endangered Hawaiian monk seal named Lani.
Where did the incident happen?
The incident occurred in Lahaina, Maui.
What laws were allegedly violated?
The Endangered Species and Marine Mammal acts.
What penalties could the suspect face?
Up to prison time and significant federal fines.
