pexels-pixabay-532001Investigation Underway After Los Angeles Police Department Officer Assaulted Detained Suspect

WATTS, CALIFORNIA (October 11, 2024) – A handcuffed man was viciously punched in the face by a Los Angeles Police Department officer in Watts.

Los Angeles County officials are saying that the incident took place around 5:16 p.m. on July 28. Police officers were attempting to arrest a man who was initially stopped for an alleged double parking violation.

One officer was in the process of putting handcuffs on the man when he viciously lashed out and punched the victim directly in the jaw. A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.

Legal Considerations For Los Angeles Police Department Assaults

The Los Angeles Police Department has a long and sordid history of using excessive force. Part of the problem is that LAPD officers often do not report police brutality out of fear of retaliation. According to the LAist, “Some critics have pointed to a “code” of silence in the LAPD; a culture of protecting other officers and an implicit understanding that stepping out of line can lead to retaliation. The LAPD has denied many of these critiques. We convene a roundtable for a deep dive.” People have experienced a number of forms of excessive force by the LAPD.

  • Handcuffed suspects have been beaten.
  • Officers have repeatedly shot suspects in the midst of a mental health crisis.
  • Officers have shot suspects who are unarmed.
  • Officers have repeatedly tasered suspects who have later died.

Police officers are given a great deal of leeway in how they perform their job duties. But at no point are officers permitted to use excessive force. Pursuant to 42 U.S. Code § 1983, every person who, under the color of any statute, law or ordinance, causes a citizen of the United States to be deprived of their rights secured by the constitution, shall be liable to the injured party in an action at law. It is crucial that certain steps are taken after any instance of police misconduct.

  • Body camera footage from all officers involved should be collected.
  • Surveillance footage should be preserved.
  • Medical records related to injuries should be reviewed.
  • An experienced civil rights attorney should be contacted.

It can be hard to know what to do after any instance of police brutality. To make matters worse, police departments will virtually never take responsibility for the wrongful actions of their officers. This is why it is so important for victims of police brutality to seek legal advice as early as possible. Any person impacted by police brutality may be able to seek some measure of justice through a civil claim.

Investigating Los Angeles Police Department Assaults 

We at the Sehat Law Firm were deeply concerned to hear about this vicious attack by the LAPD in Watts. There needs to be a thorough investigation into this incident. It is our sincere hope that there is accountability for what happened.

Have you or someone that you care about been injured by the LAPD? You may have legal recourse. Our team of civil rights attorneys is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that victims of police brutality are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (949) 825-5200.

 

 

 

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