The tourist who sparked outrage online after throwing a rock at a beloved seal in Hawaii is now facing even more serious consequences.
Last week, footage surfaced showing the man throwing a rock at the animal while it rested on a beach in Lahaina, Maui.
The Hawaii Department of Natural Resources said the incident — involving an endangered monk seal — took place earlier this month on May 5. The seal was later identified as “Lani,” a well-known favorite within the local community and a symbol of the island’s resilience following the 2023 Lahaina wildfires.
The tourist who threw the rock quickly faced backlash from a local resident, who reportedly assaulted him.
Authorities have since identified the suspect as Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, with an update stating that he was responsible for the incident.
And if being attacked by a bystander and facing outrage from thousands online wasn’t enough, Lytvynchuk is now dealing with further — and potentially much more serious — consequences.
Following a statement from the United States Attorney’s Office, Lytvynchuk has officially been charged in connection with the incident.
“United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, 38, of Covington, Washington, was charged by criminal complaint on May 12, 2026, for harassing and attempting to harass an endangered Hawaiian monk seal by throwing a large rock at the seal’s head, in violation of the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act,” the statement said.
“Lytvynchuk was arrested today, May 13, 2026, near Seattle, Washington, by Special Agents of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
“Lytvynchuk is currently in custody and is scheduled for an initial appearance on these charges in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington (Seattle courthouse) on May 14, 2026, at 9 AM.”
According to the criminal complaint, Lytvynchuk had reportedly been following the monk seal’s movements as she approached the shore while playing with a floating log.
He then allegedly threw a rock at the seal, narrowly missing her head. Witnesses later said the animal appeared motionless shortly afterward.
When confronted, Lytvynchuk reportedly showed no remorse and instead told people he was “rich enough to pay the fines” before walking away.
Now, however, it appears he could face serious consequences for his actions. If convicted, the tourist could receive up to one year in prison for each charge of harassing and attempting to harass an endangered Hawaiian monk seal.
Lytvynchuk could also face a term of supervised release, along with fines of up to $50,000 under the Endangered Species Act and another $20,000 under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson stated: “The unique and precious wildlife of the Hawaiian Islands are recognized symbols of Hawaii’s special place in the world and its incredible biodiversity.”
“We are committed to protecting our vulnerable wildlife species, especially endangered Hawaiian monk seals like Lani.”
He added: “We pledge that those who harass or attempt to harm our protected wildlife will face swift accountability in federal court.”
