Fact Check: "On October 16, 2023, the Los Angeles Press Club and Status Coup filed a lawsuit against the city of Los Angeles and LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell in federal court, alleging that LAPD officers routinely violate journalists' rights during protests."
What We Know
On October 16, 2023, the Los Angeles Press Club, along with Status Coup, did indeed file a lawsuit against the city of Los Angeles and LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell in federal court. The lawsuit alleges that LAPD officers have violated journalists' rights during protests, specifically citing instances of excessive force against journalists covering protests related to immigration raids in Los Angeles. The complaint claims that the actions of the LAPD during these protests represent a "brazen refusal to abide by the Constitution and state law" and that this misconduct has been a recurring issue for over 25 years, as noted in various federal court rulings (Washington Post, Hollywood Reporter).
The lawsuit details multiple incidents where journalists were allegedly injured by less-lethal ammunition during protests. Notably, it includes the case of Lauren Tomasi, an Australian television correspondent who was hit while broadcasting live (Hollywood Reporter, Wrap). The plaintiffs argue that these actions infringe upon the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution, which protect press freedoms and due process rights (Washington Post).
Analysis
The claim that the lawsuit was filed on October 16, 2023, is accurate based on multiple credible sources. The Los Angeles Press Club is a well-established organization advocating for journalists' rights, lending credibility to their allegations against the LAPD. The sources reporting on this event, including major outlets like the Washington Post and Hollywood Reporter, are recognized for their journalistic integrity and thorough reporting.
However, the assertion that LAPD officers "routinely violate journalists' rights during protests" is more complex. While the lawsuit does allege systematic violations, it is based on specific incidents rather than a broad, established pattern of behavior. The LAPD has defended its actions as necessary responses to "hostile and riotous" protesters, indicating a contentious relationship between law enforcement and the media during these events (Washington Post, Wrap).
The sources used in this analysis are credible and provide a balanced view of the situation, detailing both the allegations made by the plaintiffs and the LAPD's defense. The ongoing nature of the lawsuit means that the full scope of the claims and their validity will be subject to judicial review.
Conclusion
The claim that the Los Angeles Press Club and Status Coup filed a lawsuit against the city of Los Angeles and LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell on October 16, 2023, is True. However, the assertion that LAPD officers "routinely violate journalists' rights during protests" is an interpretation of the allegations made in the lawsuit rather than a universally accepted fact. The lawsuit highlights specific incidents and systemic issues but does not definitively prove a routine pattern of behavior without further judicial findings. Therefore, while the lawsuit exists and the claims are serious, the characterization of LAPD behavior as "routine" remains to be substantiated through legal proceedings.
Sources
- Press club sues Los Angeles, police chief over alleged ...
- CHINESE AMERICANS IN WASHINGTON, D.C.: A HISTORIC ...
- Los Angeles, LAPD Chief Sued Over Alleged Assaults ...
- Press Groups Sue LAPD, Chief Jim McDonnell for Alleged ...
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- Covering the protests - Los Angeles
