LOS ANGELES — An 18-year-old USC freshman is seeking justice after losing an eye when struck by a projectile fired by a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officer during a “No Kings” rally in downtown Los Angeles last month. Tucker Collins is preparing to file a federal civil rights lawsuit alleging the DHS officer is responsible for his life-altering injury.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred just over two weeks ago near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles. Collins was at the rally to seize photos and witness the event, according to his own account. Video footage shows him falling to the ground, and he recalls “screaming in agony” after being struck. He now wears an eye patch and has been told by his attorney he will have a “dead eye” for the rest of his life.
Collins disputes that warnings were given, stating he did not hear any dispersal orders. His attorney, V. James DeSimone, has called for a criminal investigation into the shooting by local officials, including the mayor of Los Angeles and the police chief.
DHS Response and Arrests
A DHS spokesperson described those at the rally as “rioters,” alleging they threw rocks, bottles, and cement blocks at officers. The DHS statement asserts that officers followed training and used the minimum force necessary. Police reported 75 arrests made following the rally, including nine juveniles.
The incident is the latest in a series of cases involving injuries sustained by protesters during demonstrations. Similar claims have been made against law enforcement in other instances, including a case involving a protester blinded in the left eye at a Santa Ana protest and another where a man filed a $100 million claim against the LAPD after losing an eye during an anti-ICE protest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tucker Collins alleging?
Tucker Collins is alleging that a Department of Homeland Security officer is responsible for his life-altering injury, specifically the loss of his eye, and is preparing to file a federal civil rights lawsuit.
What does DHS say about the incident?
DHS describes those at the rally as “rioters” and states that officers followed their training and used the minimum amount of force necessary. They also claim seven warnings were issued before deploying crowd control measures.
Has Collins received any medical attention?
The article states that Collins’ eyeball was surgically removed due to his injury and that he will require additional surgeries in the future.
As Collins prepares his legal challenge, the outcome of this case could set a precedent for future interactions between law enforcement and protesters.
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