Man Charged for Allegedly Throwing Rock at Hawaiian Monk Seal in Maui: Legal Proceedings and Conservation Efforts
A man from Covington, Washington, named Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, has been charged for allegedly throwing a large rock at a Hawaiian monk seal's head in Lahaina, Maui. The incident, which occurred on May 5, 2026, was captured on video as Lytvynchuk aimed and threw the rock at the seal, narrowly missing its nose. Witnesses confronted Lytvynchuk, who reportedly claimed he could afford the fines and walked away. The seal appeared visibly disturbed after the incident, raising concerns about its well-being.
Lytvynchuk has been charged with "take" of an endangered Hawaiian monk seal, which includes actions like harassing, harming, pursuing, hunting, or killing a protected species. If convicted, he could face up to one year in prison for each charge, along with fines under the Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act, and Criminal Fine Improvements Act. The charges highlight the commitment to protecting endangered wildlife species in Hawaiʻi and enforcing federal laws against those who harm or harass them.
US Attorney Ken Sorenson emphasized the importance of upholding federal laws to safeguard Hawaiʻi's unique wildlife species, including monk seals, from illegal activities. Lytvynchuk is entitled to the presumption of innocence, and the case will proceed in United States District Court. The charges against him are allegations, and he will be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is conducting the investigation, and Assistant US Attorney Michael Nammar is prosecuting the case.
In conclusion, the charges against Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk for throwing a rock at a Hawaiian monk seal's head underscore the significance of protecting endangered wildlife species and enforcing federal laws to prevent harm to these animals. The legal process will determine Lytvynchuk's guilt or innocence, and he will face justice in federal court if convicted. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting and preserving Hawaiʻi's unique and endangered wildlife.