Man says LAPD shot projectile during anti-ICE protest that took his eye, files $100 million claim

LOS ANGELES () — A $100 million lawsuit is set to be filed against the Los Angeles Police Department after a man says he lost his eye during anti-ICE protests in January.

According to the claim, on Jan. 31, Jesus Javier Gomez Islas was struck in the eye by a “less-lethal projectile” fired by an LAPD officer.

The 23-year-old says he had just left work and was near the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles. He says he was talking to a friend, who was with the media, when he was hit.

“I just felt something punch my eye, and that’s when I realized I got green paint all over me, and I couldn’t open my right eye,” he said. “I might lose my left eye too because of this, and I’m absolutely devastated and frustrated.”

Gomez Islas says he posed no threat to officers as he stood next to his scooter.

The LAPD says it is aware of the claim but does not comment on pending litigation.