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June 13, 2025 – USA –
Amid widespread protests in Los Angeles against ICE raids, press freedom groups have raised alarms over escalating risks to journalists covering the unrest. Reports from the International Press Institute (IPI) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) indicate mounting “violence and detention” of media personnel, prompting calls for authorities to protect journalistic work.
Numerous incidents involving law enforcement targeting reporters have surfaced. In LA, journalists faced rubber bullets, pepper balls, flash-bangs, and even brief detentions while on air. CNN’s Jason Carroll was held and cuffed during a live broadcast, while Australian television journalist Lauren Tomasi was struck in the leg with a rubber bullet—an attack being investigated back home as apparently deliberate.
CalMatters reports that nearly a dozen journalists were struck by law enforcement projectiles over four days of unrest. Among them, British reporter Nick Stern suffered a leg injury from a projectile wound requiring emergency surgery, nicknamed the “40 mm hole” incident. According to data compiled by the Los Angeles Press Club, at least 30 press workers were affected, with five sustaining injuries serious enough to require medical attention.
IPI and CPJ have strongly condemned the behavior. IPI described the “use of force toward journalists” as deeply alarming, while CPJ cautioned the press to “get ready” for targeted violence ahead of anticipated nationwide protests.
These patterns echo a grim legacy, evoking memories of the 1970 death of journalist Ruben Salazar, killed by a tear-gas round while covering unrest in LA—a haunting reminder of the persistent dangers journalists face.
The volatile environment stems partly from federal intervention in LA after President Trump deployed National Guard and Marines without California’s approval. Police enforcement escalated with curfews, horses, and “less-lethal” munitions, heightening the risk to both protesters and journalists.
Press freedom advocates warn that suppressing coverage through force or detention fundamentally undermines the First Amendment and democratic accountability. They urge police training, stricter operational guidelines, and protections to ensure journalists can cover protests safely.
As nationwide demonstrations continue, the safety of journalists remains a litmus test for free expression in the United States—and one that observers warn is being severely compromised.
Reference –
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jun/11/journalists-los-angeles-protests-attacks
