Dozens of residents and community advocates used the Los Angeles City Council’s Oct. 31 public comment period in Van Nuys to criticize Los Angeles Police Department tactics at recent demonstrations, to allege excessive use of force against protesters and journalists, and to urge the council to remove Chief Jim McDonnell.

Speakers included named and anonymous commenters who described being injured, seeing reporters struck with less‑lethal rounds and asserting that LAPD has coordinated with federal immigration enforcement. "We demand the removal of Chief McDonnell," said Daniel Sosa, a public commenter who asked the council to vote to remove the chief by a two‑thirds council motion. Jennifer Kozak, who identified herself as a community member, said LAPD leadership "lacks the courage to hold both itself and other officers accountable for their actions."

Other speakers called for independent review of after‑action reports, greater transparency and limits on LAPD overtime spending tied to protest responses. Michael Ebenkamp, a Valley resident, told the council that after‑action reports documenting the department’s responses have not been agendized by the public safety committee and urged the chair to schedule review.

Council members acknowledged the comments but did not introduce or vote on a motion to remove the chief during the meeting. The clerk closed public comment after an extended period; several speakers later had referrals posted to council committees. The record shows broad public demand for accountability; the council may consider formal motions or committee action in the coming days.