LA fire union prez blasts Mayor Karen Bass for axing chief Kristin Crowley over wildfire response: ‘Scapegoat’

The Firing of Fire Chief Kristin Crowley Sparks Outrage

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) union has expressed outrage over Mayor Karen Bass’s decision to fire Fire Chief Kristin Crowley, accusing the mayor of using Crowley as a scapegoat for the city’s response to the devastating Palisades wildfire. United Firefighters of Los Angeles City President Freddy Escobar criticized the termination, stating that Crowley was being punished for speaking the truth. Escobar argued that Crowley’s dismissal was unjust and that the real issues lay with the city’s lack of resources and support for the fire department. The union’s strong reaction underscores the growing tension between the city’s leadership and its firefighters, who feel that their efforts are being undermined by inadequate funding and equipment.

Mayor Bass’s Claims and the Union’s Response

Mayor Karen Bass claimed that thousands of firefighters were not scheduled to work during the Palisades Fire, which broke out on January 7, and blamed Crowley for failing to staff fire stations adequately. Bass asserted that 1,000 firefighters could have been on duty but were instead sent home under Crowley’s leadership. However, Escobar disputed this claim, arguing that the department had enough personnel available but lacked the necessary resources to respond effectively. The union pointed out that budget cuts had left the department with nearly 100 broken-down fire engines, trucks, and ambulances due to the reduction of civilian mechanic positions. This, they argued, was a clear example of the city’s neglect of the fire department.

Budget Cuts and Their Impact on Firefighter Resources

The union has long criticized the city for cutting the LAFD’s budget, which they claim has severely impacted wildfire prevention efforts. These cuts have affected essential services such as brush clearance and the maintenance of fire hydrants, which are critical for combating wildfires. The union also highlighted the city’s failure to pay firefighters correctly for their work, further eroding morale within the department. Escobar emphasized that the city’s neglect has left firefighters to battle dangerous fires with outdated equipment and insufficient support, putting both them and the public at risk.

The Dispute Over the After-Action Report

Another point of contention is the after-action report that was ordered by the LA Fire Commission president. Bass accused Crowley of refusing to produce the report, which she claimed was necessary to evaluate the department’s response to the fire. However, Escobar countered that an after-action report was already in progress, conducted by the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), an independent organization tasked by Governor Gavin Newsom to analyze the Palisades and Eaton fires. The FSRI’s report, which will be released in two parts, will examine the facts surrounding the fires and assess the policies that may have contributed to their severity. Escobar dismissed Bass’s claims as baseless and defended Crowley’s leadership, asserting that she was being unfairly singled out.

The Union’s Defense of Chief Crowley

The union has unequivocally supported Crowley, describing her termination as "wrong" and arguing that she was being made a scapegoat for the city’s failures. Escobar highlighted the enormous obstacles firefighters faced during the Palisades Fire, including a lack of personnel, malfunctioning equipment, and a water supply that ran dry. Despite these challenges, firefighters managed to do their jobs, and the union believes that Crowley should not be held solely responsible for the city’s poor preparedness. The union’s defense of Crowley reflects their frustration with the city’s lack of accountability and their belief that the real issues lie with the city’s leadership and budget priorities.

The Broader Implications for Public Safety and Accountability

The conflict between the LAFD union and Mayor Bass raises important questions about public safety, accountability, and the treatment of first responders. The union’s accusations of neglect and mismanagement highlight the need for greater transparency and investment in the city’s fire department. The outcome of this dispute will not only determine the future of the LAFD but also set a precedent for how cities across the country prioritize the safety of their residents and the well-being of their firefighters. As the FSRI’s report continues to take shape, it will be crucial to address the systemic issues that contributed to the Palisades Fire and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.