California Man Jailed for Pouring Alcohol Into Hawk’s Mouth

A California man has been sentenced to 45 days in jail after video showed him giving alcohol to a protected hawk.

Cesar Gustavo Diaz captured the juvenile Cooper’s hawk at a park in South Whittier, Los Angeles County, then poured an alcoholic drink into its mouth.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife released screenshots of the disturbing footage.

Diaz, a convicted felon, was charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty and illegally capturing wildlife.

He received 45 days in jail, 12 months probation, a five-year ban on owning animals, and a 10-year firearm prohibition.

He served 44 of the 45 days ahead of sentencing due to good behavior. He must also pay a $220 fine, perform community labor, and attend animal cruelty counseling.

The case sparked outrage among wildlife advocates and animal lovers, highlighting the legal consequences of cruelty to protected species.