Former Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley is suing the city and Mayor Karen Bass, she announced Wednesday.
Crowley, who was dismissed following the January wildfires that severely impacted the Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and other parts of Southern California, alleges she has been defamed and faced retaliation. She further accuses the city and Mayor Bass of negligence.
“The claim reveals a consistent pattern of dishonesty, scapegoating, and illegal retaliation that entirely derailed the career of a 25-year public servant, not due to any shortcomings in her role, but because she was truthful,” her legal team stated.
The lawsuit specifically claims Crowley “informed City leadership and the public that Mayor Bass’ budgetary reductions and the City’s long-term neglect had left the LAFD underfunded, understaffed, and inadequately prepared to manage the rising demands of a growing city, particularly one susceptible to dangerous wildfires.”
In response to the criticism, Bass fired Crowley and “launched a smear campaign built on falsehoods,” the suit adds.
“Integrity, honesty, and prioritizing others have always been my guiding principles throughout my career,” Crowley expressed in the release. “During my nearly three-year tenure as Fire Chief, I advocated for adequate funding, staffing, and infrastructure improvements to better support and protect our Firefighters, and consequently, our communities.
“The falsehoods, deceit, exaggerations, and distortions need to be countered with the only remedy—true facts. As Firefighters, we rush toward uncertainty and willingly risk everything. Doing the right thing, even when challenging, is always the correct choice, which is why I am persisting in advocating for the resources our Firefighters require to ensure everyone’s safety.”
KTLA has reached out to Bass for comment and will update this story once it is received.
