British Photojournalist Injured by Non-Lethal Rounds: Behind the Lens at Los Angeles Protests

Nick Stern, a British photographer living in Los Angeles, has had a shocking experience while covering a protest against ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement). During the event, which took place near a Home Depot, Stern felt a sudden, severe pain in his leg. Moments later, he discovered he had been injured, likely by a non-lethal round fired by police.

Stern recounted, “I was walking around taking photos and felt a mighty pain in my leg. I reached down and felt a lump sticking out.” The scene quickly turned serious. A medic was called, revealing a deep wound that had to be treated urgently. This was no ordinary protest; it escalated quickly as tensions rose between protesters and law enforcement.

The LA County Sheriff’s Department deployed over 100 deputies to manage the crowd, which swelled to between 350 and 400 people. Sheriff Robert Luna described the situation as chaotic, with some protesters throwing objects. “When peaceful assembly turns violent,” Luna said, “we have to step in.”

Stern echoed the protesters’ frustrations, which were directed at ICE. “You could feel the anger in the crowd,” he observed. Many voices chanted, “ICE out of LA!” This captures a growing sentiment in Los Angeles, where a significant Hispanic community resides.

In recent years, protests against ICE have surged, reflecting wider national trends. According to a report from the Pew Research Center, protests around immigration issues have become increasingly frequent, with about 70% of Americans believing that the U.S. immigration system is in need of reform.

Stern’s injury has raised questions about the use of non-lethal force in crowd control. Experts in police tactics note that while non-lethal options like rubber bullets are intended to minimize harm, they can still cause severe injuries. Dr. Robert H. Jones, a public safety expert, stated, “Non-lethal does not mean risk-free. Injuries can and do happen.”

Stern’s experience brings to light the risks that journalists face while covering protests. In an age where information spreads quickly on social media, the role of photographers and reporters is crucial. They capture moments that resonate with larger societal issues and spark conversations. However, their safety must also be a priority.

The clash on that day illustrates a significant moment in the ongoing debate about immigration and law enforcement in America. While the right to protest is fundamental, maintaining peace remains a complex challenge for law enforcement. As communities continue to grapple with these issues, every voice matters in shaping a more just society.



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