"I don't care. Fine me, I'm rich."
Incident
A tourist was detained after being filmed throwing a large rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal on a beach in Lahaina, Maui. The incident occurred near the Lahaina shoreline on a Tuesday. The rock narrowly missed the seal's head.
Witness Account
Kaylee Schnitzer, who recorded the event, stated that when she informed the man she had called the police, he replied, "I don't care. Fine me, I'm rich."
Law Enforcement Response
The Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement's Maui Branch dispatched officers who detained the suspect. According to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, the suspect, a 37-year-old man from Seattle, Washington, was questioned and later released after requesting legal counsel. No criminal charges have been filed at this time, and his identity has not been released.
Legal Context
Hawaiian monk seals are among the most endangered marine mammals in the world. Harassing, injuring, or killing them violates both state and federal law, with potential fines or criminal penalties. The Department of Land and Natural Resources is investigating and will provide findings to NOAA's Office of Law Enforcement for possible federal action.
Official Statements
Maui Mayor Richard Bissen stated on Instagram that the suspect "is not the kind of visitor we welcome on Maui" and emphasized that respectful behavior toward the environment and wildlife is required.
Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement Chief Jason Redulla noted that it has not been confirmed whether the seal, named Lani, was harmed.