LAPD & Journalists: Protest Scrutiny
- Recent Los Angeles protests have seen journalists targeted by law enforcement, raising serious concerns about press freedom.
- Abraham Márquez, a reporter with Southlander, experienced this firsthand while filming a standoff in Paramount.
- County Sheriff’s department have faced criticism over their treatment of the media.
During recent Los Angeles protests, the LAPD has come under fire as journalists report being targeted by law enforcement. Reporters covering demonstrations endured less-lethal rounds,tear gas,and threats of arrest,sparking First Amendment concerns among advocates and officials. Incidents include a reporter with Southlander who was shot with foam rounds and Australian TV news reporter Lauren Tomasi, who was shot in the leg. The Los Angeles Police Department faces criticism, but the LAPD states it supports press freedom. News Directory 3 brings you the latest on these investigations. Discover what’s next as investigations continue, and the outcomes could change policies.
journalists Targeted During Los Angeles Protests, Sparking Outrage
Updated June 12, 2025
Recent Los Angeles protests have seen journalists targeted by law enforcement, raising serious concerns about press freedom. Reporters covering demonstrations have reported being shot with less-lethal rounds, tear-gassed, shoved, and even detained. These incidents have drawn condemnation from public officials and First Amendment advocates, who argue that such actions undermine the essential role of a free press.
Abraham Márquez, a reporter with Southlander, experienced this firsthand while filming a standoff in Paramount. Despite identifying himself as press,Márquez said sheriff’s deputies shot him with foam rounds. “They just unloaded,” Márquez said, adding that he felt compelled to keep reporting despite the incident.
The Los Angeles Police Department and L.A. County Sheriff’s department have faced criticism over their treatment of the media. Some observers suggest the situation has worsened, fueled by anti-media rhetoric.Arturo Carmona, president of Caló News, stated that several of their reporters have been harassed and attacked by law enforcement.
One high-profile case involved Australian TV news reporter Lauren Tomasi, who was shot in the leg by a less-lethal round. The incident drew international attention, with Australian Prime Minister Tony Albanese calling it “horrific.” Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also weighed in, saying it “sends a terrible message.”
The LAPD said it supports press freedom and trains officers on the rights of journalists. Though, spokesperson Jennifer Forksh acknowledged that real-time challenges can complicate the application of these policies. The Sheriff’s Department said it is reviewing video footage of incidents involving the media.
deputy Chief Michael Rimkunas of the LAPD said the department is investigating complaints of mistreatment of journalists. A coalition of press and civil liberties groups has also expressed alarm over potential First Amendment violations.
Ben Camacho, another journalist covering the protests, was struck in the kneecap by a round. He emphasized the importance of independent media and the lack of medical insurance for many freelance journalists.
Adam Rose, Los Angeles Press Club Press Rights Chair, said the mistreatment of journalists is part of a “history of ugly treatment by police.” He noted that discipline for offending officers is rare, even when abuses are documented on video.
“The price for free speech should not be this high,” said Arturo Carmona, president and publisher of Caló News.
what’s next
Investigations into these incidents are ongoing, and further scrutiny of law enforcement’s handling of journalists during protests is expected. The outcomes of these investigations could lead to policy changes and further training for officers.