Judge Issues Order Against LAPD’s Use of Less Lethal Ammunition on Journalists

A federal judge in Los Angeles, appointed by President Biden, has put in place a temporary restraining order that limits the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) from deploying less lethal ammunition (LLM) against journalists covering immigrant protests.

This order, signed by Judge Hernan Bella, prohibits the LAPD from tying up or restricting journalists’ movement during these events. Judge Bella highlighted, in particular, over 35 alarming incidents that occurred between June 6 and 19, where police allegedly targeted journalists with LLM, tear gas, and other forms of force, effectively obstructing their ability to report from conflict zones.

Vera noted that journalists merely trying to document the protests reportedly faced barrages of projectiles and other physical measures. Some incidents appeared to have police specifically targeting individuals recognized as media personnel. For example, on June 8, a journalist from 9News Australia, Lauren Tomasi, was reportedly shot at with a rubber bullet when she was quite far from any protesters—striking a leg but leaving her unharmed.

Furthermore, the judge pointed out that other journalists mentioned in the report faced being pushed by officers and being shot with LLM. It’s been emphasized that the need for free media coverage amidst ongoing protests across Southern California remains a pressing concern.

With the current situation, the court plans to hold a follow-up hearing soon to decide whether a more extended preliminary injunction against LAPD’s tactics should be put into effect.