- A tourist, Igor Lytvynchuk, 38, is facing federal charges for allegedly throwing a coconut-sized rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal on a Maui beach.
- Lytvynchuk's defence lawyer claims his client mistook the monk seal for an aggressive sea lion and was trying to protect sea turtles.
- The incident, captured on video, sparked widespread outrage, and Lytvynchuk has reportedly faced severe backlash, including death threats and a physical assault.
- Prosecutors allege Lytvynchuk told a witness he “did not care” and was “rich” enough to pay any fines' after being confronted about the act.
- Lytvynchuk faces up to one year in prison and a potential fine of up to $20,000 for each charge under the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act.
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