An Australian journalist - among other journalists - was injured June 8th, 2025 when a Los Angeles Police Department employee in riot gear turned away from the protest line and seemingly fired a rubber bullet directly at her while she was broadcasting live. 

Journalists have a right and obligation to report the news. Lauren Tomasi posed no threat - real or implied - to anyone on either side of the conflict. That she was seemingly purposely shot with a rubber bullet is offensive on many fronts and flies in the face of journalistic protections in the US.  Whether purposeful or in bad judgment, the person who shot her should be charged criminally and an investigation must be conducted into whether he followed police department procedure in discharging his weapon. 

Charges must be brought promptly to safeguard other journalists doing their jobs across the country. A swift message must be sent to other law enforcement officers and National Guard members that rampant disregard for safety and protocol will not be tolerated.