Federal agents have arrested a Washington businessman who allegedly boasted that his personal wealth made him immune to the consequences of animal cruelty. The case has ignited international outrage and renewed scrutiny of wildlife protection laws in Hawaii.
Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, 38, was taken into custody on 13 May after a viral video captured him hurling a 'coconut-sized rock' at the head of a critically endangered Hawaiian monk seal known to locals as Lani. The incident, which occurred on the shores of Lahaina, Maui, has propmted a swift federal response and widespread condemnation.
