UCLA Protesters Sue Police Over Violent Dispersal Tactics

Los Angeles – UCLA Protesters File Lawsuit Against Police for Violent Dispersal of Pro-Palestinian Encampment Using Rubber Bullets

Protesters have filed a lawsuit against the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), and several individual officers in connection with alleged violent actions taken during a pro-Palestinian encampment at UCLA. This encampment was part of nationwide protests responding to Israel’s military actions in Gaza.

The lawsuit alleges that police conspired to violently dismantle the encampment, which was established by anti-genocide protesters on May 1, 2024. Claims within the lawsuit highlight the use of excessive force during the clearing of the encampment when officers reportedly fired over 50 rounds of rubber bullets, leading to serious injuries among participants.

On April 30, 2024, prior to the police’s intervention, pro-Israel activists allegedly assaulted pro-Palestine protesters for over four hours without police intervention. The next day, city officials and law enforcement were set to dismantle the encampment, deploying more than 700 officers from various agencies, including the UCLA Police and private security contractors.

Injuries Inflicted by Police Action

Among those injured, one student suffered a shattered hand that required surgical intervention, while another individual was diagnosed with internal bleeding from a rubber bullet that struck their head. The use of rubber bullets is regulated by California law, necessitating a reasonable threat to life or risk of serious injury before their deployment.

Legal and Political Context

The plaintiffs include individuals such as a Ph.D. candidate and an architectural designer, who are asserting that their rights under California law have been violated. They contend that the aggressive response from police has instilled a fear of violence and retaliation, potentially suppressing future protest activities protected under the First Amendment. Attorney Ricci Sergienko, representing the plaintiffs, noted that many of these incidents occurred in Democratic-run areas, potentially showcasing a broader trend of governmental repression amid current political tensions.

The lawsuit takes place against a backdrop of increasing legislative scrutiny concerning police violence and the usage of rubber bullets, an issue that gained public attention following the protests after George Floyd’s death. In California, police had recently faced restrictions on the use of rubber bullets, aimed at reducing instances of injury among protesters.

Arrests and Accusations of Police Brutality

During the UCLA encampment, over 200 individuals were arrested, and numerous accusations of police brutality arose due to injuries reported during the dispersal. Concerns have been raised regarding head trauma among demonstrators as well as overall psychological distress resulting from these encounters. The LAPD subsequently requested over $500,000 in funding from the state governor to cover the costs of their response, including overtime expenses incurred during the policing efforts.

Broader Implications for Students

Participants in the protests, particularly international students, face significant concerns about the potential for deportation due to arrest records linked to these demonstrations. Additionally, statewide legislative movements seeking to limit discussions on ethnic studies are raising further alarms over free speech and academic freedom in educational institutions.

UCLA Administration’s Response

Following the incident, UCLA administrators have publicly emphasized their intent to enhance campus safety and maintain order, asserting that future encampments will be prevented. Police defended their actions as necessary to address safety concerns amid rising tensions from counter-protests, claiming adherence to departmental policies.

As the case unfolds, it may have significant implications for the future of peaceful protest movements, police conduct regulations, and First Amendment rights across educational institutions and beyond.