The Los Angeles Police Department’s use of mounted officers during recent protests against federal immigration enforcement has sparked significant criticism from residents, civil rights groups, and journalists. Videos circulating on social media depict aggressive crowd control tactics, including officers on horseback charging at protesters and incidents where horses appear to kick or run over individuals. Civil rights attorney Carol Sobel compared these actions to the infamous Rodney King incident, highlighting concerns about excessive use of force. Public commenters at a recent Board of Police Commissioners meeting condemned the mounted unit’s tactics as state-sanctioned attacks on peaceful protesters, while police officials emphasized their support for peaceful protest but vowed accountability for violence or property destruction.
Despite mounting scrutiny and ongoing investigations into complaints, the LAPD’s mounted unit is expanding its herd by adding a new horse named Domino, approved at the same commissioners meeting. This addition replaces one of three retiring horses and brings the total to 25. The protests and police response have also led to substantial financial costs for the city, with over $100 million in liability payouts related to LAPD lawsuits in recent years and an estimated $32 million in protest-related expenses through mid-June 2025. Additionally, a lawsuit was filed by press organizations alleging violations of journalists’ rights during the protests, potentially increasing the city’s financial liabilities.
