The Trials of the Officers who Assaulted Rodney King

This research project explores the state and federal trials of the LAPD officers who beat Rodney King. By analyzing the charges, trials, verdicts, and public reaction through a legal lens, this project seeks to examine how one of the first viral videos showing the beating of an African American male by police reflects American social history during this historical moment.

I am currently examining primary sources in various archives for the state and federal courts in California as well as legal documents submitted by a number of parties throughout the United States in the appellate cases involving the two convicted officers.