Washington Businessman Charged with Harassing Endangered Hawaiian Monk Seal

A Washington businessman faces two federal charges after a viral video showed him throwing a rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal on a Maui beach.

Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, 38, of Covington, Washington, is accused of the act on May 5. Locals captured the incident on camera as he tossed the rock at the head of the seal, known to them as "Lani." Hawaiian monk seals number only about 1,600 in the wild, making them one of the rarest marine mammals.

Business records list Lytvynchuk as owner of a logistics and trucking company in Kent, Washington. When confronted by angry witnesses, he claimed he was "rich enough to pay the fines."

"What are you doing? Why would you throw a rock at it? Hello?" a woman shouted in the video. The man, dressed in a white shirt and swim trunks, lobbed the rock from the shoreline.

The Department of Justice charged Lytvynchuk with harassing and attempting to harass the endangered animal, violating the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act. Authorities arrested him near Seattle on Wednesday.

He faces up to one year in prison on each count, a $50,000 fine under the Endangered Species Act, and up to $20,000 under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

The rock narrowly missed Lani's nose, startling her and causing her to rear up from the water, the DOJ said. Witnesses reported that Lani stayed largely immobile for an extended time afterward, raising concerns for her welfare.

"The unique and precious wildlife of the Hawaiian Islands are renowned symbols of Hawaii’s special place in the world and its incredible biodiversity," U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson said. "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 video sparked outrage on social media. Users identified Lytvynchuk and demanded his arrest. After his arrest, one X user wrote, "Karma doesn’t care how rich you are." Another said, "Let’s hope justice is served in court and this scumbag receives a significant custodial sentence."

It was not immediately clear whether Lytvynchuk has an attorney.