A Bizarre Act Sparks Outrage (Image Credits: Ca-times.brightspotcdn.com)
South Whittier — Authorities secured a conviction against a local resident who captured a juvenile hawk and subjected it to alcohol and marijuana in acts captured on video.[1][2]
A Bizarre Act Sparks Outrage
In June 2025, Cesar Gustavo Diaz, a 25-year-old from Watts, snatched a juvenile Cooper’s hawk from Amelia Mayberry Park.[1] He then posted footage online that revealed the extent of his mistreatment. One clip depicted Diaz pouring a BuzzBall — a premixed cocktail with about 15% alcohol packed in a green spherical container — directly into the bird’s mouth.[3] Another showed a lit joint placed in the hawk’s beak.
The videos quickly drew public ire. Concerned viewers reported the content to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, igniting a thorough probe.[2] Diaz, already a convicted felon held on unrelated charges, released the hawk before officers could intervene.[1]
Investigation Unravels the Case
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Special Operations Unit took charge. Lieutenant Trevor Pell led efforts that included five judge-approved search warrants, aided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Operation Safe Streets unit.[3] Investigators identified Diaz through the viral YouTube posts.
Pell described the scenario as unprecedented. “This fact pattern is definitely an unusual one,” he stated. “I haven’t seen anything to this level of disregard for the animal in quite a while.”[1] Captain Nick Buckler emphasized public vigilance: “Something like this, which is relatively bizarre and shocking to the conscience of the public, generally comes to our unit.”[1]
Officers forwarded the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office as potential felony animal cruelty. Prosecutors ultimately pursued misdemeanor charges: animal cruelty under Penal Code 597(b) and capturing or confining wildlife under Fish and Game Code 3005.5.[2]
Court Delivers Swift Justice
On February 19, 2026, Diaz entered a no-contest plea to the animal cruelty charge in Los Angeles County Superior Court. The wildlife possession charge was dismissed.[3]
The judge imposed a multifaceted sentence. Here are the key penalties:
- 45 days in Los Angeles County Jail, with credit for time served, allowing immediate release.
- 12 months of summary probation.
- 20 days of community labor.
- Completion of a 24-session animal cruelty counseling program.
- Five-year prohibition on possessing animals.
- 10-year ban on firearms possession.
- $220 in fines and fees.
These measures aim to deter future offenses and promote rehabilitation.[4]
Understanding the Protected Species
Cooper’s hawks hold significant ecological value. These raptors, which grow to about 15 inches long, hunt small mammals like squirrels and chipmunks, as well as occasional fish.[3] Federal law, including the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 updated in 1998, shields them from capture, harm, or harassment. California statutes extend similar protections to all raptors.
Incidents like this underscore vulnerabilities for such wildlife. The Department of Fish and Wildlife urges reports of violations through CalTIP at 888-334-2258 or its app.[2]
Key Takeaways
- Public tips turned viral videos into actionable evidence.
- Protected raptors demand respect under state and federal laws.
- Combined penalties emphasize accountability and prevention.
This case highlights how community awareness intersects with law enforcement to safeguard wildlife. It serves as a stark reminder that wildlife crimes carry real consequences. What do you think about the sentence? Tell us in the comments.
