A Los Angeles-based federal judge appointed by former President Joe Biden recently issued a temporary restraining order, restricting the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) from using less-lethal munitions (LLMs) on journalists covering immigration protests.

The order, signed by Judge Hernan Vera on Thursday, also prevents the LAPD from detaining or restricting the movements of journalists.

Vera cited at least 35 “troubling” incidents between June 6 and 19, where police allegedly exposed journalists to LLM, tear gas and other physical force to block them from covering conflict zones.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers move in on demonstrators in front of LA City Hall during a protest against federal immigration sweeps in downtown Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.    (REUTERS/Barbara Davidson)

Other incidents cited in the order detail journalists allegedly being shot with LLMs and being pushed by officers.

“Indeed, given the fundamental nature of the speech interests involved and the almost daily protests throughout Southern California drawing media coverage, the identified harm is undoubtedly imminent and concrete,” Vera wrote. 

LAPD officers on horseback clash with protesters during protests after a series of immigration raids on June 8, 2025, in Los Angeles, California.  (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

The court will hold another hearing soon to decide if a longer preliminary injunction on the LAPD should be imposed.