During the recent demonstrations in Los Angeles, a number of reporters have been harmed, including a correspondent from an Australian news outlet who experienced a direct hit from a less lethal round while delivering live news coverage. Lauren Tomasi of Channel 9 in Australia, was in the midst of a live transmission from a demonstration site when the incident took place. The video capture of the incident reveals Ms. Tomasi positioned to the side of a city intersection, with law enforcement officials, a few on horseback, behind her, confronting the protestors as eruptions sound off.
The sudden change in atmosphere where peace turned to escalating tensions was immediate. The L.A.P.D., mounted on their horses, started to use rubber projectiles, this was reported by Ms. Tomasi as she was on the ground. A distressing moment follows in the video where an officer is seen aiming a weapon in Ms. Tomasi’s direction and discharging it. With a cry of shock, she’s seen hobbling away from the scene.
Channel 9 confirmed afterwards that a non-lethal round hit Ms. Tomasi, causing her discomfort but thankfully no serious damage. Following the incident, doubts arose as to whether the officer had intentionally aimed at Ms. Tomasi, and if so, which law enforcement agency he was associated with.
It’s unfortunate that several jurisdictions’ officers, including the Los Angeles Police Department, the California Highway Patrol, and the Department of Homeland Security, were present during the protest, making it challenging to identify the officer. In response to the incident, the California Highway Patrol absolved itself, stating it was not involved.
Non-lethal ammo such as foam rounds and other similar types are touted as a safer alternative to lethal ammunition. However, they are not without risk, as substantial injuries can occur, leading to a growing number of advocates urging for a prohibition on their use. Such items have become a common inclusion in the police departments’ arsenal for handling protests or public disorder situations.
These less lethal alternatives were notably put into action during the nationwide protests sparked by the death of George Floyd in 2020. As the tool for riot control becomes more commonly used, instances of injury, such as the one experienced by Ms. Tomasi, have unfortunately become more frequent.
In another related event, it was reported that a British photojournalist based in Southern California also endured significant harm in what seemed to be a hit from a non-lethal round. This incident occurred while he was reporting on a protest on a Saturday in Paramount, a city located within Los Angeles County.
He experienced a severe injury to his leg, showing a further example of the potential risks that these less lethal ammunitions can pose. Despite being billed as non-lethal alternatives, in reality, they can still cause considerable harm and injury, illustrating the urgency of reassessing their use.
