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Graphic Video of Police Beating Kelly Thomas Shown in Court
This May, 19, 2002 family photo released by the Thomas family on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2011 shows Kelly Thomas (AP Photo/Thomas Family)
A violent video of police officers beating, kicking and then Tasering the schizophrenic homeless man as he cried out for his dad was shown in court yesterday. The preliminary hearing will determine if two Fullerton officers will stand trial for the death of Kelly Thomas.
A medical expert is expected to testify in court today. Kelly Thomas' father, Ron Thomas, and other family members are in attendance. Yesterday the judge notified them when autopsy images of the brutal beating and the video were about to be shown so that they could leave the courtroom.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
