A substantial reward has been announced for information regarding an individual who was observed decapitating a sea lion as part of a disturbing trend. The National Marine Fisheries Service in California is offering $20,000 to anyone who aids in the apprehension of a stout, middle-aged man responsible for sawing off the head of the deceased sea lion in late July. The man was seen placing the animal’s head in a plastic bag before departing the scene.
Authorities have released an image of the suspect involved in the heinous act. Described as a white male, around 5 feet 9 inches tall, bald, with a full beard, and appearing to be in his late 50s, the man used a hunting knife to remove the sea lion’s head at Point Pinos Beach in Pacific Grove.
“We are soliciting information on the individual who carried out the decapitation and any additional details related to the incident,” stated the NOAA in a press release. The agency is offering a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading to an arrest, civil penalty assessment, or criminal conviction.
Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, it is illegal to disturb, harm, kill, or feed sea lions and to collect parts of protected marine mammal species. Violations of this act can result in civil or criminal prosecution.
This incident occurred following a previous case where a man in his 30s was witnessed removing the head of a dead sea lion in Bodega Bay village before fleeing on an e-bike. Similarly, a reward was offered for information resulting in a conviction. However, the agency has not confirmed whether the individual was apprehended.
Recently, a California beach that was occupied by a large number of sea lions had to be temporarily closed to visitors. San Carlos Beach in Monterey advised tourists to stay away after a group of sea lions took over the area, leaving little space for sunbathers.
“We prioritize the safety of residents and visitors along the coastline,” the city stated in a release, emphasizing that these creatures are protected by federal law, and any form of harassment, feeding, capturing, or harming them is prohibited.