Fact check: What evidence collection methods do LA authorities use in protest-related investigations?

1. Summary of the results

LA authorities employ a comprehensive system of evidence collection during protest-related investigations. The primary methods include:

• Systematic video evidence review and documentation ^{[1] [2]}
• Deployment of multiple crowd control resources including National Guard troops, mounted patrol officers, and riot shields ^[2]
• Analysis of open source information and social media ^[3]
• Documentation of specific incidents such as vandalism, assaults on officers, and freeway disruptions ^[2]

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several important contextual elements are worth noting:

• The LAPD has established formal review processes that go beyond simple evidence collection, incorporating departmental data analysis to assess their protest responses ^[3]
• There's a significant issue with misinformation and false claims spreading on social media during protests ^{[4] [5]}, which may complicate evidence collection efforts
• The implementation of tactical alerts allows for extended police shifts, suggesting evidence collection is part of a broader operational strategy ^[2]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The question itself presents some inherent limitations:

• It assumes evidence collection is primarily focused on protesters, while authorities also document police conduct and responses ^[3]
• The focus on "evidence collection" might overlook the broader context of how this evidence is used. Sources indicate authorities specifically target those "responsible for assault and damage" ^[1], suggesting a selective approach to prosecution
• Multiple stakeholders have different interests in how evidence is collected and presented:

Law enforcement benefits from extensive documentation to support prosecutions ^[2]

Protesters and civil rights groups might be concerned about surveillance and privacy implications

• Social media platforms become both a source of evidence and a potential source of misinformation ^{[4] [5]}