Igor Lytvynchuk, 38, from Covington, Washington, is scheduled to appear in a Honolulu court after being charged with harassing and attempting to harass an endangered Hawaiian monk seal. Multiple outlets report that a viral video shows the man throwing a coconut-sized rock at the seal’s head during his time in Hawaii. Legal filings described in coverage state the conduct is alleged to involve throwing a large rock at the animal.
At least one source reports that he pleads not guilty. Another outlet reports he is barred from Hawaii beaches while the case proceeds. Lytvynchuk’s lawyer argues that the incident was not intended to harm the seal, saying the man was trying to protect sea turtles. The same legal representative also says the defendant has faced assaults, threats, and doxing since the video circulated.
Separate reporting also references the charging by federal prosecutors, while one outlet describes the matter as arising from a criminal complaint. Coverage is consistent that the case centers on alleged harassment of a protected endangered marine animal and that court appearances and restrictions are part of the ongoing proceedings.
