In 2019, while serving as an EMT in Los Angeles, I responded to a call that would change my life forever. I was helping a sexual assault victim in distress following protocol, doing my job when law enforcement intervened. What should have been a routine medical response escalated into something unthinkable. I was arrested inside my own ambulance. Taser drawn. Handcuffed. Taken away while my patient remained in the back. Although I was released shortly after, with an apology once the situation was reviewed, the damage had already been done. I lost my career in EMS. I lost years of my life to a legal battle that lasted over five years. And in the end, the courts dismissed my case on a technicality, without ever allowing my full story to be heard. The City of Los Angeles quietly settled. But I never received real justice. What I did receive was the lasting impact: • Financial loss estimated at $100,000+ in wages and opportunities • Emotional trauma and PTSD • The complete disruption of a career built on helping others I’ve since had to rebuild my life from the ground up, turning to video production and truck driving just to survive. WHY THIS CAMPAIGN MATTERS This is more than a fundraiser. This is The People’s Jury a call for everyday individuals to step in where the system failed. If the courts couldn’t deliver justice, maybe the people can. Your support will help: • Recover lost income and stabilize my life • Fund ongoing healing and mental health recovery • Produce raw, honest storytelling to raise awareness and protect other first responders from similar experiences WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS NOW When someone who has dedicated their life to saving others is left without support, it raises a bigger question: Who shows up for those who show up for us? This is your opportunity to be part of that answer. Every donation is more than financial support,it’s a statement: “We see you. We stand with you. You’re not alone.” If this story resonates with you, I ask you not to scroll past. Donate what you can. Share this with others. Help turn this moment into something meaningful. Together, we can prove that when systems fall short, people can still rise. Thank you for standing with me. Roryce Dirden.