Los Angeles, CA – June 11, 2025 — In a viral video captured during recent protests in Los Angeles, an LAPD officer fired a rubber bullet at close range, striking a woman who identified herself as simply “trying to get home”. The footage—widely shared on social media—shows the woman walking alone toward her residence when law enforcement officers issued orders to clear the area.
She was hit mere feet away from the officer, staggering back as an onlooker exclaimed, “They literally just shot her point‑blank.” Though termed “less‑lethal,” rubber rounds can cause serious injury—even death in some cases.
Legal Framework
Under California Penal Code § 835a, officers are only permitted to use any type of force, including less-lethal munitions, when necessary and proportional to an imminent threat of harm. Even non-lethal projectiles can be life-threatening at close range, raising serious concerns about whether the level of force was justified in this scenario. Furthermore, civil claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 may apply if force was excessive or violated constitutional protections.
Broader Civil Rights & Media Safety Concerns
The same LAPD tactics have also impacted journalists, such as Australian Nine News’ Lauren Tomasi, who was struck by a rubber bullet while covering protests. The Australian prime minister described these incidents as “horrific,” pressuring U.S. officials to justify the use of such force against non-combatants and reporters.
This shooting is emblematic of a broader trend in California. The California Attorney General’s OpenJustice portal recorded over 140 officer-involved shootings statewide in 2023, with “less-lethal” weapons increasingly involved.
Seeking Accountability for Officer-Involved Shootings
We at the Sehat Law Firm were greatly disturbed to learn of this incident
At The Sehat Law Firm, we provide expert legal support for individuals harmed by excessive or improper police tactics. If you or a loved one has been impacted by police misconduct or an in-custody incident, contact us at (949) 825-5200 for a free consultation, or complete the form at the bottom of this page to discuss your case with our legal team.
Legal Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and should not be considered legal or medical advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary, and any referenced here may not apply to your situation. This article was created from secondary sources and may not be completely accurate. If you have any concerns, please contact us, and we’ll update or remove the post as needed.
