Full Breakdown
Jury Awards $11.8 Million to Dodgers Fan Blinded by LAPD Projectile
4/17/2026, 4:26:35 AM
Central Event: Legal Victory for Isaac Castellanos
A federal jury has awarded $11.8 million to Isaac Castellanos, a Los Angeles Dodgers fan who was blinded in one eye by a less-lethal police projectile during a World Series celebration on October 28, 2020. The verdict, reached on April 15, 2026, concludes a nearly six-year legal battle initiated by Castellanos, who alleged excessive force by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) during the incident.
Background & Context: Incident Overview
On the night of the Dodgers' World Series victory, Castellanos, then a 22-year-old Cal State Long Beach student, was celebrating peacefully near Crypto.com Arena when LAPD officers responded to reports of vandalism and violence in the area. Castellanos was struck in the face by a 37-mm “skip trace” launcher, which is designed to fire hard-foam projectiles intended for lower-body targeting. His attorneys argued that the officers fired from approximately 145 feet away, contrary to LAPD policy, which mandates close-range use of such weapons.
Key Figures & Groups: Isaac Castellanos and LAPD
Isaac Castellanos has become a central figure in the discourse surrounding police use of less-lethal weapons. His legal representation, including attorney Pedram Esfandiary, has emphasized the emotional and professional toll of his injuries, particularly on his aspirations in esports. The LAPD, facing scrutiny over its crowd control tactics, has been criticized for its response to what many witnesses described as a largely peaceful celebration.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the jury's decision, Castellanos' attorney expressed hope that the substantial verdict would prompt the LAPD and city officials to reconsider their use of less-lethal weapons. The attorney stated, “This was just another nail in that coffin that this has to stop.” In response to ongoing concerns, the LAPD has been compelled to limit the use of certain projectile launchers, with a federal judge issuing an injunction against 40-mm launchers in January 2026. However, the department has continued to deploy alternative crowd control measures during protests.
Criticism & Opposition: Concerns Over Police Tactics
Critics of the LAPD's actions during the incident argue that the department overreacted to the situation, which they maintain was predominantly peaceful. Castellanos and other witnesses have contended that they did not pose a threat to officers and did not hear any dispersal orders prior to the police intervention. The incident has raised broader questions about the appropriateness of less-lethal weapons in crowd control scenarios.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps: Discrepancies in Accounts
While Castellanos' legal team presented evidence of excessive force, LAPD officials have maintained that their response was necessary due to violent actions from some individuals in the crowd, including the throwing of rocks and bottles. This discrepancy highlights ongoing tensions regarding police use of force and the effectiveness of crowd control measures.
What's Next: Implications for LAPD Policy
The jury's verdict may lead to increased scrutiny of LAPD practices and further legal challenges regarding the use of less-lethal weapons. As more lawsuits emerge, the department faces pressure to reform its crowd control strategies and ensure compliance with established policies.
