Police investigating after decapitated sea lion found at popular California beach

• Police are investigating after a sea lion was found beheaded on Ocean Beach in San Francisco.
• Wildlife experts believe the sea lion was decapitated after it had already died, possibly to collect its head as a trophy.
• Similar incidents have been reported previously along the California coast, including a decapitated sea lion found in Pacific Grove last year.
• Interfering with or removing parts from a marine mammal carcass is a federal crime under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
• Offenders face strict penalties, including fines of up to $36,000 and up to a year in prison.

IN FULL

Investigation launched after beheaded sea lion is found along San Francisco shore