Story perspectives

Student Blinded by Federal Officer's Projectile at Protest

1/17/2026

Center

Kaden Rummler Blinded

Kaden Rummler, Southern California college student, says a projectile fired by a federal officer during a protest on January 9, 2026 blinded him in one eye.
Rummler underwent a six-hour surgery and now faces loss of depth perception and ability to drive.
The protest was part of a larger movement opposing the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Rummler's attorney suspects the projectile contained toxic materials and calls for a thorough investigation.

Right

Court Bans LAPD Weapons

A federal court has prohibited the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) from using 40mm and 37mm projectile launchers for crowd control.
Judge Consuelo B. Marshall determined that the LAPD violated a previous injunction by deploying these weapons against non-threatening protesters.
This ruling follows incidents of excessive force during protests against immigration enforcement in 2025.
The court found the city in civil contempt and mandated an immediate cessation of these weapon uses.
Plaintiffs may pursue attorney fees, but no compliance overseer was appointed.

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Kaden Rummler Blinded

Kaden Rummler, Southern California college student, says a projectile fired by a federal officer during a protest on January 9, 2026 blinded him in one eye.
Rummler underwent a six-hour surgery and now faces loss of depth perception and ability to drive.
The protest was part of a larger movement opposing the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Rummler's attorney suspects the projectile contained toxic materials and calls for a thorough investigation.

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