Police Use of Less Lethal Weapons to the Face, Head During Protests Across the Country Leave Many Permanently Damaged
DENVER (KDVR) — The use of less lethal weapons by police during protests and demonstrations in Denver has resulted in a lawsuit as well as a temporary restraining order against the DPD.
Gov. Jared Polis has also recently signed into law a broad police accountability bill over concerns of use of force by police officers.
In Colorado, up until June 9, five individuals reported being hit in the head and/or face by less lethal weapons by police during protests.
A 21-year-old reported getting struck on May 30 around 9:30 p.m. while walking to his car.
Russell Strong, a Lakewood resident, was struck on May 30 while protesting at Civic Center Park and will need several facial reconstructive surgeries. Strong had broken bones around his eye, and the right side of his jaw will need to be realigned.
A GoFundMe is available to assist Strong with medical bills.
On May 29, Megan Matthews was also struck in the face by Denver Police while protesting at the Capitol.
MLB All Star, Dale Murphy, tweeted and said on May 30 his son was also struck in the eye while protesting in Denver. Murphy says a kind stranger immediately drove him to the hospital emergency room.