The Los Angeles Police Department and the LA County Sheriff’s Department are at the center of criticism for how they handled people protesting racial injustice and police brutality.
Protesters and reporters say officers and deputies instigated violent clashes, using unnecessary force and dangerous weapons on peaceful protesters. Police and sheriff’s officials say they were targeted by some protesters who were throwing bottles and other objects at them. The LAPD says it has launched more than 50 investigations into possible police misconduct.
Now the National Lawyers Guild of Los Angeles has filed a federal class action lawsuit against the LAPD, saying the department used excessive force and violated the civil rights of protesters.