Feds hunt sicko who battered sea lion at La Jolla Cove near San Diego

U.S. federal wildlife investigators are looking into a video that shows a person allegedly kicking a sea lion at La Jolla Cove near San Diego. NOAA’s Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement said it is investigating reports of the social-media video, citing the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The law sets strict penalties for anyone who harasses, injures or kills protected marine mammals, including dolphins, seals, sea lions and manatees. Reported consequences include civil fines up to $11,000, criminal penalties up to $100,000, and up to one year in prison. In the footage, the individual kicks the sea lion off a low concrete wall and then chases it while bystanders laugh. NOAA is asking for information and directs tips to its enforcement office.