What started the LA Riots?

The LA Riots of 1992 began with the arrest of Rodney King, a Black man, by four white officers of the Los Angeles Police Department. The incident, which was captured on video, showed excessive force being used against King. After he was beaten and left unconscious, the officers were not charged, sparking widespread anger. The trial of the officers led to civil unrest, with riots breaking out across Los Angeles. The violence lasted for six days and resulted in 54 deaths, over 1,000 injuries, and more than $1 billion in property damage. The riots highlighted deep-seated racial tensions and issues within the justice system.