- United States
- Nev.
- Letter
I am writing to you as a deeply concerned constituent in light of the troubling events that unfolded during the recent ICE protests in downtown Las Vegas on June 11, 2025. Peaceful demonstrators—and even bystanders—were subjected to tear gas, projectiles, and mass arrests by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD). Among those arrested was Cirque du Soleil performer Jimmy Slonina, detained for over 16 hours despite not engaging in any unlawful activity.
This is not just a local law enforcement issue—it is a civil rights crisis happening in your district, and it demands your leadership and action.
Nevadans have a constitutional right to peacefully assemble and express dissent without fear of violence or arbitrary detention. The excessive use of force—against not just protesters, but everyday citizens simply present in public spaces—sets a dangerous precedent for how law enforcement handles public gatherings.
As your constituent, I demand to know:
1. What concrete steps will you take to protect your constituents from police overreach?
2. Will you support legislation or funding measures to establish independent oversight of law enforcement actions in Nevada?
3. How will you work to ensure that the public remain safe from police over reach? Additionally, I urge you to:
• Push for an immediate, independent investigation into the LVMPD’s handling of the June 11 protests.
• Introduce or support state legislation requiring law enforcement to meet stricter standards for use of force, especially when responding to constitutionally protected protests.
• Advocate for increased transparency, including mandatory release of body-worn camera footage in cases of contested arrests.
• Champion protections for journalists, legal observers, and bystanders caught up in police actions at public demonstrations.
This moment calls for more than statements of concern—it calls for decisive action. We need leaders who will stand up not just for order, but for justice.
I look forward to your prompt response outlining exactly what steps you will take to protect the people you represent.