A businessman whose viral video captured him declaring he was “rich enough” to dodge repercussions for allegedly harming an endangered seal species in Hawaii now faces the challenge of proving his wealth, following the imposition of two federal charges related to the incident.
Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, a 38-year-old resident of Covington, Washington, is accused of hurling a rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal’s head on May 5. The scene, recorded by locals, features one of the world’s rarest marine creatures.
Lytvynchuk, who claimed his wealth could shield him from the consequences when confronted by onlookers, owns a logistics and trucking enterprise headquartered in Kent, Washington, according to business records.
This 38-year-old businessman, Igor Mykhaylovych Lytvynchuk, now faces two federal charges for allegedly striking an endangered Hawaiian monk seal with a rock on May 5, 2026, as per the Department of Justice.
In the video, a woman is heard exclaiming, “What are you doing? Why would you throw a rock at it? Hello?” as the man, dressed in a white shirt and swim trunks, tosses a rock at the seal’s head along a Maui beach.
The Hawaiian monk seal in the video is called “Lani” by loving locals, according to a Department of Justice release announcing the charges. There are only about 1,600 Hawaiian monk seals in the wild.
Lytvynchuk has been charged with harassing and attempting to harass the endangered animal in violation of the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act, according to the DOJ. He was arrested near Seattle on Wednesday.
A Hawaiian monk seal rests on the rocky shore of Lehua Island near Niihau, Hawaii. The species, Neomonachus schauinslandi, is endangered. (Andre Seale/VW PICS/Universal Images Group)
He could face up to a year in prison for both the harassment and attempted harassment charges, along with a $50,000 fine under the Endangered Species Act and a fine of up to $20,000 under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
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“The rock narrowly missed her nose, startling her, and causing her to rear up out of the water,” the release says. “According to witnesses, Lani remained largely immobile for an extended period of time after the incident, which caused much concern over her welfare.”
Upon being confronted by the witnesses, Lytvynchuk dismissed their concerns, noting that he was “rich enough to pay the fines” should he get in trouble.
Two Hawaiian monk seals swim in the surf at Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge in Hawaii. (Auscape/Universal Images Group)
“The unique and precious wildlife of the Hawaiian Islands are renowned symbols of Hawaii’s special place in the world and its incredible biodiversity. We are committed to protecting our vulnerable wild species, in particular endangered Hawaiian monk seals, like Lani,” said U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “We pledge that those who harass and attempt to harm our protected wildlife will face rapid accountability in federal court.”
The video set off a social media firestorm, and users quickly identified the suspect, leading to calls for his arrest.
After his arrest, users celebrated.
“Karma doesn’t care how rich you are,” said on X user.
“Let’s hope justice is served in court and this scumbag receives a significant custodial sentence,” said another.
It was not immediately clear if Lytvynchuk had an attorney.