LAPD Faces Scrutiny Over Protest Response, Whistleblower Lawsuit Reveals Internal Conflicts

A lawsuit filed by a former Los Angeles Police Department captain alleges a coordinated effort to downplay excessive force used against protesters, reigniting debate over police tactics and accountability in the city.

Captain Johnny Smith’s 2021 lawsuit details pressure from the city attorney’s office to sign a sworn declaration falsely stating officers had no choice but to use force during a 2020 protest in Tujunga, amid widespread demonstrations against police brutality. Smith refused, claiming evidence showed officers violated LAPD policy regarding less-lethal weapons like beanbag shotguns and 40mm launchers – designed for “target specific” use, not crowd dispersal. The case gained renewed attention following a recent incident where a journalist was struck by a projectile during a protest, raising concerns about ongoing violations of rules protecting press freedom.

According to Smith’s complaint, internal reviews of citizen complaints following the 2020 protests were deliberately sanitized, with most deemed “unfounded” before being reopened by Smith and his team, revealing numerous policy violations. He also alleges a “problematic bias” in reporting the events at Tujunga to then-Chief Michel Moore, with photos of severe injuries omitted from presentations. The city has consistently denied the allegations, stating each use of force case was thoroughly investigated. The ongoing legal battles over crowd control tactics highlight the complex relationship between law enforcement and civil liberties, particularly in the wake of heightened scrutiny of police actions. The American Civil Liberties Union provides resources on protestor rights.

Yesterday, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell defended the department’s actions at a recent Police Commission meeting, stating protesters were engaging in disruptive behavior. However, he declined to comment publicly on an incident where a reporter for L.A. Taco was struck by a 40mm projectile, stating he would address it “offline.” The incident prompted accusations that officers were targeting journalists, with one officer reportedly justifying the action by saying they were firing at “fake” journalists. The department is currently investigating the incident. You can find more information about the current LAPD leadership here.

The U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals is scheduled to hear arguments in mid-November regarding restrictions on the LAPD’s use of less-lethal weapons, a case stemming from earlier litigation over the department’s handling of protests.