Full Breakdown
USC Student Shot by DHS Agent During Protest: A Case of Press Freedom and Use of Force
4/8/2026, 8:22:07 AM
Incident Overview
On March 28, 2026, during a "No Kings" protest in downtown Los Angeles, Tucker Collins, an 18-year-old University of Southern California freshman, was allegedly shot in the eye with a less-lethal projectile by a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agent. The incident resulted in Collins losing his right eye and has raised significant concerns regarding the use of force by federal agents against protesters and members of the press.
Background & Context
The "No Kings" protest was part of ongoing demonstrations against perceived injustices and government actions. Collins was present to document the event when he was struck by what appeared to be a projectile containing chemical irritants. His attorney, V. James DeSimone, noted that this incident is part of a troubling trend, as Collins is reportedly the third or fourth individual to lose an eye due to similar actions by DHS agents during protests.
Legal Actions and Implications
DeSimone plans to file a federal civil rights lawsuit on behalf of Collins, alleging that the officer acted with reckless disregard for Collins' rights under both federal and state law. He criticized the use of less-lethal weapons, stating, “These less-lethal weapons are target specific... it’s against policy and against the law to use them for crowd dispersal.” DeSimone's law firm has represented at least 15 individuals injured by DHS agents during protests since June 2025, indicating a pattern of excessive force.
Criticism & Opposition
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from various advocacy groups and individuals. Jamal Abdi, Vice President of Policy at the National Iranian American Council, described the shooting as “a horrific and unacceptable use of force against a student journalist who was simply trying to document a protest.” Critics argue that there is a prevailing mindset among some law enforcement agencies that views peaceful protesters as adversaries rather than citizens exercising their First Amendment rights.
Official Statements & Responses
While the DHS has not publicly commented on the incident, DeSimone emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “It’s upsetting to see the level of violence.” He expressed confidence in the potential success of the upcoming lawsuits, reflecting a broader concern about the treatment of journalists and protesters by law enforcement.
What's Next
As the legal proceedings unfold, Collins' family is expected to pursue a lawsuit against the DHS. The incident has also prompted discussions about the need for stricter regulations on the use of force by federal agents during protests, highlighting ongoing tensions between law enforcement and civil liberties.
Verbatim Quotes
- “What they’re saying “We've unfortunately seen in other instances where law enforcement has targeted the press with violence.” — V. James DeSimone, Attorney
- “This is a horrific and unacceptable use of force against a student journalist who was simply trying to document a protest.” — Jamal Abdi, Vice President of Policy, National Iranian American Council
- “These less-lethal weapons are target specific and it’s not like they’re spraying it into the crowd and getting them to disperse.” — V. James DeSimone, Attorney
This incident underscores the critical need for accountability and reform in the use of force by federal agents, particularly in the context of protecting press freedoms and the rights of individuals participating in peaceful protests.
