Los Angeles, California – A California man has been sentenced to jail time and probation for charges stemming from an animal cruelty incident in June 2025. According to sources, 25-year-old Cesar Gustavo Diaz, of Watts, captured a Cooper’s Hawk at a park and then took video of him forcing the bird to drink alcohol.
The incident took place on June 15, and the video footage shows Diaz pouring alcohol from a Buzz Ball into its mouth.
In a press release, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said:
The case came to light after a video surfaced on YouTube showing Diaz pouring an alcoholic beverage into the bird’s mouth, seen in the screenshots below.
Concerned members of the public alerted CDFW, prompting an investigation by the Special Operations Unit. Wildlife officers executed five search warrants during the investigation. With the assistance of detectives from LASD Operation Safe Streets, Diaz, a convicted felon who was already in custody on unrelated charges, was identified and later interviewed. Diaz allegedly released the hawk prior to CDFW intervening.
Outlining the outcome of the case:
On Feb. 19, 2026, Diaz entered a no-contest plea to the animal cruelty charge. He was sentenced to 12 months of summary probation, 45 days in Los Angeles County Jail (with credit for time served), 20 days of community labor, completion of a 24-session animal cruelty counseling program, five-year prohibition on possessing animals, ten-year firearm prohibition and payment of $220 in fines and fees.
Cooper’s hawks are protected under California and federal law. CDFW reminds the public that capturing, harming or harassing wildlife is illegal and can result in criminal charges. Anyone with information about wildlife crimes is encouraged to report them to CalTIP at 888-334-2258 or via the CalTIP app.
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