Tourist investigated for harassing endangered seal in Maui

A tourist on the island of Maui, Hawaii, was filmed throwing a stone at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal named Lani. Witnesses claim the man dismissed threats of police involvement by stating he was wealthy and beyond consequences. Following the incident, a local resident physically assaulted the tourist, an act for which State Senator Brenton Awa publicly praised him. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources detained the tourist for questioning, but he was released after seeking legal counsel. No formal charges have been filed yet, though the Department is investigating the matter. Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, harming such wildlife can result in fines of up to 50,000 dollars and potential prison time. Mayor Richard Bissen condemned the tourist's actions, emphasizing that visitors who do not respect local wildlife and culture are not welcome.