State-protected hawk given a joint, BuzzBall on video, officials say - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Alex Wigglesworth

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A man in Los Angeles has learned a hard lesson after giving alcohol to a protected Cooper’s hawk and recording the act, which was later shared online. Cesar Gustavo Diaz, 25, pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge of animal cruelty following the incident. He was sentenced to 45 days in jail, ordered to serve 12 months of probation, complete 20 days of community labor, and undergo a 24-session counseling program focused on animal cruelty. Additionally, Diaz is prohibited from possessing animals for five years and firearms for 10 years. The incident began when Diaz captured a juvenile Cooper’s hawk at Amelia Mayberry Park in South Whittier in June 2025. He poured an alcoholic beverage, specifically a BuzzBall cocktail containing about 15% alcohol, into the bird’s mouth. A video of this act was shared on YouTube, drawing attention from authorities. Trevor Pell, a lieutenant specialist with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, noted that while violations involving birds of prey are not uncommon, this case stood out due to its extreme disregard for animal welfare. Diaz’s actions were brought to light after members of the public reported the video to state wildlife officials. At the time of the investigation, Diaz was already in custody on unrelated charges but had since been released. He was also prohibited from releasing the hawk while under investigation. The case highlights the serious consequences of mistreating protected wildlife, as Cooper’s hawks are safeguarded under both federal and state laws. This unusual case underscores the importance of public vigilance in protecting animals and adhering to legal standards. Authorities emphasized that such incidents often come to their attention through concerned citizens, who played a crucial role in bringing Diaz’s actions to light. The Department of Fish and Wildlife noted its appreciation for these tips, as they allow for necessary follow-up on issues that may otherwise go unnoticed. The case serves as a stark reminder of the legal protections in place for wildlife and the potential consequences of abusing or neglecting animals. It also raises awareness about

Verticals

newscalifornia

Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/26/2026