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FTL Woman Nearly Blinded By Cops While Protesting Peacefully Testifies To D.C. Lawmakers

LaToya Ratlieff

Almost exactly a month ago, LaToya Ratlieff was shot in the face with a foam rubber bullet by a Fort Lauderdale police officer as she choked on tear gas at a protest over the death of George Floyd. Monday, still struggling with her eyesight, she testified in front of Congress about her experience.

The 34-year-old, who’s recovering from a fractured eye socket and gash that required 20 stitches, spoke alongside others injured in encounters with police officers by way of a virtual hearing conducted by the U.S. House’s Oversight Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties.

In an interview with the Miami Herald afterward, Ratlieff said she was happy with how the hearing went and grateful for the opportunity to share her story with the nation. Looking forward, she said she’s going to continue to contact local community leaders and nonprofits to see how she can be of service.

To read more, visit our news partner at the Miami Herald.

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