**Los Angeles Man Sentenced for Animal Cruelty After Feeding Alcohol to Protected Hawk**
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In a disturbing case of animal cruelty, a 25-year-old man from Los Angeles County has been sentenced to 45 days in jail and one year of probation. Cesar Gustavo Diaz of Watts was found guilty of unlawfully providing alcohol to a juvenile Cooper’s hawk, a protected species under both state and federal laws. The incident occurred at Amelia Mayberry Park in South Whittier, California, in June 2025, and was documented in a video that later surfaced on YouTube.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) confirmed the details of the case in a Facebook update, stating that a concerned member of the public alerted authorities after witnessing the appalling act. The video depicted Diaz pouring what appeared to be a BuzzBall cocktail into the bird’s mouth, raising immediate concerns for the hawk’s wellbeing.
On February 19, Diaz appeared before the Los Angeles County Superior Court, where he entered a no-contest plea to the charges of animal cruelty. As part of his sentencing, he has also been mandated to complete 20 days of community service and a 24-session animal cruelty counselling programme. Furthermore, he is prohibited from owning animals for five years and from possessing firearms for a decade. In addition, he has been ordered to pay $220 in fines and fees.
The court’s decision came after a thorough investigation led by the CDFW’s Special Operations Unit. The investigation involved executing five search warrants, and assistance was provided by detectives from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Operation Safe Streets. Diaz, who already faced unrelated felony charges at the time, was quickly identified and brought in for questioning after the video sparked outrage.
Authorities have confirmed that Diaz allegedly released the hawk before they could intervene. CDFW officials stressed the responsibility of the public to look after wildlife, reminding everyone that capturing or harming protected species is a criminal offence. They emphasised that such actions can lead to serious legal consequences.
The Cooper’s hawk, known for its distinctive features and agile hunting abilities, is a species that has been granted protection under the law. The CDFW’s statement underscored the significance of these laws, stating the importance of safeguarding California’s wildlife.
Witnesses to Diaz’s actions expressed their condemnation, with many labelling the incident as shocking and highly irresponsible. The CDFW noted that the public’s vigilance played a critical role in bringing the situation to light. Thus far, the case has drawn considerable attention to the issues surrounding wildlife protection and the treatment of animals.
Having already served 44 of his 45-day sentence due to time served and good behaviour, Diaz has reportedly been cooperative during his time in custody. His actions have sparked a broader conversation about animal rights and the consequences of cruelty towards wildlife.
In closing, it is crucial to acknowledge the ongoing efforts of wildlife authorities and concerned citizens who work tirelessly to protect animals and ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future. The CDFW continues to encourage individuals to report any suspicion of animal abuse or illegal activities related to wildlife, reminding everyone that the health and safety of the environment and its creatures depend on communal responsibility.