Federal judge restricts LAPD from targeting journalists with force at immigration protests

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.

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. 

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