$20,000 Reward Offered for Information on Sea Lion Decapitation in California.
Federal authorities are offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to the identification and conviction of a suspect who decapitated a California sea lion at Doran Regional Park in Bodega Bay on Christmas Day 2024. The shocking act has drawn widespread outrage, with officials urging the public to assist in the investigation.
Disturbing Discovery on Christmas Day
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Office of Law Enforcement, a park staff member discovered the headless sea lion on December 25, 2024. Authorities have since launched a full investigation into the brutal killing, which violates the Marine Mammal Protection Act—a law that strictly prohibits the harassment, hunting, capturing, or killing of marine mammals, including sea lions.
Eyewitness Account and Suspect Description
An eyewitness reported seeing the suspect use a black, 8-inch knife to sever the sea lion’s head before placing it in a clear plastic bag and fleeing the scene on a black fat-tire e-bike. The suspect is described as:
- A tan man, aged 30–40 years old
- Wearing all black clothing at the time of the crime
Officials are urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area to come forward.
NOAA Offers $20,000 Reward
In an effort to track down the perpetrator, NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement has announced a $20,000 reward for information that leads to a criminal conviction or civil penalty.
Authorities are calling on the public to help bring justice in this case. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact NOAA’s 24/7 hotline at (800) 853-1964.
How You Can Help
If you were in the Bodega Bay area on December 25 and saw anything suspicious, your information could be crucial in solving this case. Even the smallest details—such as security footage, photographs, or additional descriptions of the suspect—could assist authorities in identifying the individual responsible.
This disturbing incident underscores the importance of protecting marine wildlife and upholding conservation laws. NOAA officials continue to emphasize their commitment to enforcing the Marine Mammal Protection Act and ensuring that those who harm protected species are held accountable.
