A local Hawaiian is being hailed as a hero for pummeling a Seattle tourist caught hurling a huge rock at a beloved monk seal — and even earned a special recognition from the state government for the vigilante ass-whooping.

A tourist in Maui who was caught on camera throwing a rock at an endangered monk seal has been arrested by federal agents. The 38-year-old from Washington State is being charged with harassing a protected animal and is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.

He told me, ‘I’m rich. Fine me with whatever you want. I can pay for it. I come here every month,’” one witness said.