LOS ANGELES - A man suffered a shattered jaw after being struck by a foam projectile fired by a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officer during a 2025 protest against federal immigration policies, according to a civil lawsuit filed in Los Angeles Superior Court. The lawsuit alleges excessive force and seeks damages for the plaintiff’s injuries.
Details of the Incident and Lawsuit
Atlachinolli Tezcacoatl was participating in a rally protesting the Trump governance’s immigration policies in downtown Los Angeles on June 8, 2025. According to the lawsuit, LAPD officers escalated a situation near Temple and Alameda streets, advancing on protesters and firing 40mm foam projectiles. Tezcacoatl, who was reportedly backing away with his hands raised and filming the encounter on his cellphone, was struck twice – once in the ribs and once in the face. The impact to his face resulted in a shattered jaw and other facial fractures.
The suit claims the targeting of Tezcacoatl was “entirely unwarranted and unjustified,” and that he posed no threat to officers.Attorney V. James DeSimone, representing Tezcacoatl, stated that LAPD policies prohibit officers from shooting at people’s heads, and that such projectiles can cause catastrophic injuries, even being considered deadly force when aimed at the head.
Injuries and Medical Treatment
Tezcacoatl sustained significant injuries, including a shattered jaw, facial fractures, glaucoma in his left eye, and chest and nasal injuries. He required two surgeries,including facial reconstruction,and was hospitalized at Huntington Memorial Hospital in Pasadena until June 15,2025.He continues to experience chronic mouth pain and emotional distress, and has been unable to return to his job as a caregiver. The lawsuit also details mounting medical expenses.
Allegations Against the LAPD
The lawsuit alleges several civil rights violations, including assault and battery, negligence, and intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress. It further contends that officers fired projectiles at individual protesters who were retreating and that mounted officers used force against demonstrators. A report by the Daily News indicated that LAPD officers fired over a thousand projectiles at protesters during a single day of immigration enforcement unrest in 2025.
LAPD Projectile Use and Controversy
The use of less-lethal projectiles by law enforcement has been a subject of ongoing debate and scrutiny. While intended to be a non-lethal alternative to firearms, these projectiles can cause serious injuries, including concussions, broken bones, and eye injuries. Concerns have been raised about the training and policies governing their use,especially in protest situations. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has been a vocal critic of the LAPD’s use of force tactics, advocating for greater clarity and accountability. ACLU
Key Takeaways
- Atlachinolli Tezcacoatl sustained severe injuries, including a shattered jaw, after being struck by LAPD projectiles during a 2025 protest.
- The lawsuit alleges excessive force and civil rights violations.
- The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the use of less-lethal projectiles by law enforcement.
- The City Attorney’s Office has not yet commented on the suit.
As of January 20, 2026, the City Attorney’s Office had not issued a response to the lawsuit. The case is ongoing, and further developments are expected as it proceeds through the legal system.
