Los Angeles Man Cesar Gustavo Diaz Sentenced After Pouring Alcoholic Drink Into Cooper’s Hawk’s Mouth in Viral Video
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA — A 25-year-old man has been sentenced after pleading no contest to a misdemeanor animal cruelty charge stemming from a video that showed him pouring an alcoholic drink into a bird’s mouth.
The disturbing incident, which was captured on video and later circulated online, involved a protected Cooper’s hawk and prompted an investigation by state wildlife authorities.
Video Shows Alcohol Poured Into Hawk’s Mouth
According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Cesar Gustavo Diaz captured a Cooper’s hawk in June 2025. Shortly after, he recorded and posted a video showing himself pouring a Buzz Ball alcoholic beverage directly into the bird’s mouth.
The footage quickly drew attention, with viewers expressing outrage over the treatment of the raptor. Wildlife officials later confirmed that the bird involved was a Cooper’s hawk, a species protected under state and federal regulations.
Authorities said the act constituted animal cruelty under California law.
Investigation Identified Suspect While in Custody
Investigators with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife identified Diaz as the suspect after reviewing the viral video and related evidence. Officials noted that Diaz was already in custody on unrelated charges when they connected him to the animal cruelty case.
Prosecutors ultimately charged him with a misdemeanor count of animal cruelty. Diaz later entered a no contest plea in court, accepting conviction without formally admitting guilt.
Court records show he was sentenced following the plea agreement.
Wildlife Officials Condemn Treatment of Protected Bird
Wildlife authorities emphasized that Cooper’s hawks are protected birds of prey and that harming or harassing them carries legal consequences. Officials stated that forcing alcohol into a bird’s mouth can cause serious internal harm and distress.
Animal welfare advocates also voiced concern, noting that raptors are highly sensitive wildlife species that should never be handled or interfered with by the public.
The case has renewed warnings from state officials about interacting with wild animals and the potential criminal penalties for mistreatment.
Public Reaction Follows Viral Footage
The video’s circulation on social media intensified public scrutiny and prompted widespread criticism. Many viewers questioned why someone would intentionally record and share such conduct involving wildlife.
Authorities say the outcome of the case sends a message that animal cruelty — even when captured for online attention — will not be ignored.
Residents are encouraged to report suspected wildlife abuse to local authorities or state wildlife agencies for investigation.
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