Search for suspect who decapitated dead sea lion in Bodega Bay
Reward in decapitation of dead sea lion
Authorities are searching for a suspect who decapitated a dead sea lion in Bodega Bay on Christmas Day.
BODEGA BAY, Calif. - Authorities are searching for a suspect who decapitated a dead sea lion in Bodega Bay on Christmas Day.
Doren Regional Park
What we know:
The sea lion was found dead at Doran Regional Park in Bodega Bay on Christmas. Later that day, a park staff member discovered that someone had decapitated the animal, according to the National Marine Fisheries Service’s law enforcement branch, also known as NOAA Fisheries.
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A witness described the suspect as a man with a tan complexion, between 30 and 40 years old, dressed in all black, and riding a black fat-tire e-bike. The suspect was seen using an 8-inch black knife to remove the sea lion’s head, placing it in a clear plastic bag, and riding away, authorities said.
$20K reward
What you can do:
Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, capturing or killing sea lions is prohibited. Violations carry civil penalties of up to $34,457 and up to one year in prison.
The government agency is offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to a civil penalty or criminal conviction, the agency said.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call NOAA’s 24/7 enforcement hotline at (800) 853-1964.
The Source: National Marine Fisheries Service Office of Law Enforcement