1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The policing response to the recent protests in Los Angeles raises serious concerns about violations of state law and First Amendment rights. Videos appear to show indiscriminate use of less-lethal weapons like tear gas and rubber bullets against peaceful protesters, undermining the right to free speech and assembly. This escalating use of force failed to prioritize de-escalation tactics and give adequate warnings as required by law. Militarized crowd control makes our city seem like a war zone and breeds further conflict. I urge you to direct LAPD to fully comply with AB 48, SB 98, and the federal court order by restricting weapons to true threats, allowing journalists to report freely, and emphasizing communication over confrontation during protests. Upholding constitutional rights and de-escalating tensions must be the priority to resolve these demonstrations safely for all Angelenos.