The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is investigating 86 complaints of officer misconduct during last month’s protests, with 59 involving allegations of excessive force. The head of the LAPD’s Professional Standards Bureau, Michael Rimkunas, announced the ongoing investigations on Friday. These complaints arose from protests against immigration enforcement, which saw violent clashes between police and demonstrators.
According to the Los Angeles Times, most complaints were submitted by citizens through the inspector general’s office or the LAPD’s complaint hotline. Some complaints were initiated internally after media reports highlighted questionable officer behavior. The LAPD’s response to the protests, which included the use of 40-mm “less-lethal” projectiles, has been criticized for being heavy-handed.
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell defended the officers’ actions, stating they faced crowds throwing bottles, bricks, and Molotov cocktails, which resulted in injuries to 52 officers. However, McDonnell has promised to review the department’s response. An internal task force is examining body camera footage and interviewing witnesses to gather evidence of misconduct.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Southern California reported being contacted by over 250 people who claimed to have been harmed by police or witnessed others being harmed during the protests. The protests, sparked by immigration raids, led to President Trump deploying the California National Guard to assist federal law enforcement, according to Just the News.
The LAPD has opened investigations into three incidents where individuals required hospitalization due to police actions. Rimkunas noted that the number of cases involving injuries could rise as more people come forward. The department is also gathering information from local hospitals about potential victims who have not yet contacted the LAPD.
The situation has raised questions about the effectiveness of past reform efforts within the LAPD and whether they have improved accountability for officer conduct. As the investigations continue, the LAPD faces scrutiny over its handling of the protests and its commitment to addressing misconduct.
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