Tourist accused of hurling rock at endangered Hawaiian seal was trying to protect sea turtles, lawyer says
A tourist in Hawaii is facing charges for allegedly throwing a rock at an endangered monk seal, claiming he was trying to protect sea turtles. His lawyer argues that he misunderstood the situation, believing the seal was an aggressive sea lion. The incident has sparked public outrage and raised concerns about the protection of endangered species in Hawaii.
- ▪Igor Lytvynchuk is charged with harassing a protected animal after allegedly throwing a rock at a Hawaiian monk seal.
- ▪Witnesses recorded the incident, leading to widespread condemnation and demands for prosecution.
- ▪Lytvynchuk's lawyer claims he was trying to protect sea turtles and did not intend to harm the seal.
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Hawaiian monk seals are one of the world’s most critically endangered marine mammals as they continue to face a wide range of human-driven threats. Photograph: NOAA/APView image in fullscreenHawaiian monk seals are one of the world’s most critically endangered marine mammals as they continue to face a wide range of human-driven threats. Photograph: NOAA/APUS newsTourist accused of hurling rock at endangered Hawaiian seal was trying to protect sea turtles, lawyer saysIgor Lytvynchuk is scheduled to appear in court on charges of harassing and attempting to harass a protected animal Sign up for the Breaking News US newsletter email Maya Yang and agenciesWed 27 May 2026 12.45 EDTLast modified on Wed 27 May 2026 12.50 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe lawyer for a tourist accused of…
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