A Bizarre Encounter in a Local Park (Image Credits: Ca-times.brightspotcdn.com)
Los Angeles County — Wildlife officials secured a conviction against a local man who captured a protected bird and subjected it to alcohol and marijuana in a widely viewed online video.
A Bizarre Encounter in a Local Park
Public outrage ignited when a YouTube video surfaced depicting Cesar Gustavo Diaz holding a juvenile Cooper’s hawk with its beak open.[1][2] He poured a BuzzBall — a fruity cocktail boasting 15% alcohol — directly into the bird’s mouth. Another clip captured a lit joint placed between the hawk’s beak.
Diaz, 25, from the Watts neighborhood, seized the raptor in June 2025 at Amelia Mayberry Park in South Whittier.[3] Video captions boasted phrases like “Hanging out with the homie” and “Hawk loves him some buzz ball.”[2] Concerned viewers quickly reported the footage to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The hawk endured confinement and substances foreign to its natural diet. Diaz released the bird before authorities arrived. Its condition afterward remains unknown.[4]
Officials Launch Thorough Probe
The Department of Fish and Wildlife assigned its Special Operations Unit to the case. Investigators executed five search warrants with help from Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Operation Safe Streets detectives.[3] Diaz, already jailed on unrelated matters and a prior felon, faced questioning during the process.
Prosecutors initially pursued felony animal cruelty charges alongside violations for capturing and confining wildlife. The evidence centered on the incriminating videos.[1] Lt. Trevor Pell of the department’s law enforcement division called the acts an unusual display of disregard for the animal. Capt. Nick Buckler highlighted the public’s role, noting such tips prove invaluable for bizarre cases.[1]
Authorities emphasized Cooper’s hawks’ protected status under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California regulations covering all raptors. Such birds face strict safeguards against harm or harassment.[2]
Court Imposes Stringent Penalties
On February 19, 2026, Diaz entered a no-contest plea to misdemeanor animal cruelty in Los Angeles County Superior Court.[5] The judge outlined a multifaceted sentence to address the offense.
Diaz served 45 days in county jail, earning credit for time already spent behind bars and securing his release.[4] He must complete 12 months of summary probation, 20 days of community labor, and a 24-session animal cruelty counseling program. Additional restrictions bar him from possessing animals for five years and firearms for ten years. Fines totaled $220.
- 45 days jail (time served)
- 12 months probation
- 20 days community labor
- 24-session counseling
- 5-year animal ban
- 10-year firearm ban
- $220 fines
Broader Implications for Wildlife Protection
The case underscores vulnerabilities for raptors in urban parks. Cooper’s hawks thrive as agile hunters but suffer from human interference. State law prohibits capturing or endangering them, with penalties escalating for cruelty.[3]
Officials urge reporting suspicious wildlife interactions via CalTIP at 888-334-2258 or the app. Such vigilance turned this video into accountability.[3]
Key Takeaways
- Videos of wildlife mistreatment often lead to swift enforcement.
- Protected raptors like Cooper’s hawks demand respect under federal and state laws.
- Public reports via CalTIP drive investigations and convictions.
This ruling serves as a stark reminder: wildlife encounters carry legal weight. What steps can communities take to safeguard local raptors? Share your thoughts in the comments.
