A Call for Police Accountability

In a sobering reminder of the potential consequences when less-lethal weapons are misused, a young man in Los Angeles has been left permanently blind in one eye after being struck by a projectile fired by LAPD officers. On January 31, 2026, Jesus Javier Gomez Islas, a 23-year-old man, was struck in the face by a less-lethal projectile fired by Los Angeles Police Department officers during an anti-immigration enforcement demonstration near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles. According to the legal claim filed on his behalf, Mr. Gomez Islas had recently finished work, was seated on his scooter, and was speaking with another individual when the incident occurred. Bystander video footage shows the projectile striking him in the right eye, resulting in green dye covering his face and clothing.

Mr. Gomez Islas was transported to a hospital, where he underwent surgery in an effort to preserve vision in the affected eye. Medical reports indicate that the injury caused permanent loss of sight in his right eye, with additional complications that physicians have stated may threaten vision in his left eye. The incident has prevented him from returning to employment, according to statements in the claim.

Jamal Tooson’s Role in Pursuing Justice

Partner Jamal Tooson of Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, along with Attorney Antonio Villegas, is proudly co-representing Mr. Islas in this matter. On March 19, 2026, Mr. Tooson and his client held a press conference to announce a claim seeking $100 million in damages against the Los Angeles Police Department and the City of Los Angeles. The claim alleges excessive and unreasonable force, failure to properly train and supervise officers on the safe deployment of less-lethal munitions, and violations of Mr. Islas’s constitutional rights.

As Mr. Tooson stated, “He had nothing in his hands. He wasn’t making any aggressive movements toward law enforcement. He wasn’t shouting. He was having a conversation when he was innocently shot.” The filing further notes that the City and LAPD were already “on notice” that similar use of less-lethal weapons against peaceful individuals had previously caused serious injuries, underscoring a pattern that demands immediate reform.

Why Justice in Cases Like This Plays a Critical Role in Preventing Future Harm

Incidents involving the misuse of less-lethal projectiles highlight critical issues in law enforcement practices. These tools are designed to minimize harm during crowd-control situations, yet when aimed at the head or face, or deployed against non-threatening bystanders, they can cause life-altering injuries such as permanent blindness.

Cases like Mr. Islas’s are essential because they:

• Uphold constitutional protections, including the First Amendment right to observe or participate in public assemblies and the Fourth Amendment right to be free from unreasonable seizures.
• Promote accountability and encourage agencies to improve training, supervision, and policies, particularly regarding vulnerable individuals with disabilities like autism, who may process commands differently and require heightened care.
• Drive systemic change. Pursuing justice helps compel law enforcement departments to review protocols, adopt safer alternatives where possible, and restore public trust. Without such legal action, patterns of excessive force risk continuing unchecked.

Ultimately, these cases remind us that every individual, regardless of background or circumstances, deserves protection under the law and meaningful recourse when that protection fails.

How Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP Helps Victims of Excessive Force

At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, our dedicated civil rights team stands ready to fight for those injured by excessive police force. With more than 50 years of combined experience across Southern California, we have successfully secured millions in compensation for clients.

We approach every case with compassion and determination. From the outset, we conduct thorough investigations, preserve critical evidence (including video footage and witness statements), and meet all strict government-claim deadlines. Our goal is maximum compensation while holding responsible parties fully accountable.

Whether your situation involves less-lethal munitions, physical force, or any form of misconduct, we provide the aggressive, knowledgeable representation needed to secure justice.

Take the First Step Toward Accountability

If you, or a loved one, have been the victim of excessive police force or believe your civil rights have been violated, time is of the essence. Evidence must be preserved quickly, and legal deadlines are strict.

Contact the experienced attorneys at Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP today for a free, confidential consultation. We are available 24/7 and serve clients throughout Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and the surrounding areas.

Call us at (888) 643-2943 or contact us online to learn how we can help you on the path to justice and recovery.