A California man received 45 days in jail after video evidence showed him forcing alcoholic beverages into a protected hawk’s beak, sparking outrage among animal welfare advocates and demonstrating the consequences of wildlife abuse under state and federal law.
Video Evidence Leads to Arrest
Cesar Gustavo Diaz, 25, captured a young Cooper’s hawk in June 2025 from Amelia Mayberry Park in South Whittier, Los Angeles. He uploaded footage to YouTube showing himself giving the bird of prey a BuzzBallz cocktail, captioning the video with commentary suggesting the hawk enjoyed the alcohol. Additional footage appeared to show the protected bird with a cigarette in its beak, further documenting the abuse.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife launched an investigation after the video triggered widespread public concern. Authorities executed five search warrants to locate Diaz, who was already serving time on unrelated charges when investigators tracked him down. Officials believe he released the hawk before they could rescue it, leaving the bird’s current condition unknown.
Legal Consequences and Court Ruling
Prosecutors initially forwarded the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office as a felony animal cruelty matter. Diaz ultimately faced misdemeanor charges for animal cruelty and illegally capturing wildlife. He entered a no-contest plea to the animal cruelty charge, accepting responsibility without formally admitting guilt.
The judge imposed a comprehensive sentence beyond incarceration. Diaz must complete 20 days of community labor and attend 24 animal cruelty counseling sessions. The court banned him from owning or possessing animals for five years and prohibited firearm possession for ten years. He also faces three years of probation and must pay a $220 fine.
Protected Species Under Federal Law
Cooper’s hawks receive protection under both California state regulations and federal wildlife statutes. These birds of prey play vital roles in local ecosystems, controlling rodent and small bird populations. Federal law prohibits capturing, harming, or possessing these raptors without proper permits. Violations can result in substantial fines and imprisonment, reflecting the government’s commitment to preserving native wildlife populations for future generations.