A former LAFD Fire Administrator, Jenny Park, filed a lawsuit against the city of Los Angeles, alleging that she was fired for reporting misconduct by Chief Kristin Crowley and Deputy Chief Orin Saunders.
Former Los Angeles Fire Department ( LAFD ) Fire Administrator Jenny Park filed a lawsuit against the city of Los Angeles, alleging retaliation after she reported months of misconduct by Chief Kristin Crowley and Deputy Chief Orin Saunders . Park, a civilian employee of over ten years, claims she was fired for raising concerns about Crowley's actions since she assumed leadership in 2022. These concerns included nepotism, bullying, and a refusal to return $37,000 paid to her in error.
The lawsuit further states that Park reported to city officials when Saunders allegedly awarded a lucrative contract with a conflict of interest. Both Crowley and Saunders reportedly benefited significantly from the contract, earning substantial pay and benefits.Park alleges that Crowley and Saunders fostered a toxic work environment, operating the department like their personal club. Promotions were allegedly based on personal favoritism rather than merit, and those who didn't align with Crowley's preferences faced bullying and isolation. Park claims she initially brought her concerns to both Crowley and Saunders directly, then escalated the matter to city officials, who failed to address the issues. Instead, she alleges Crowley and Saunders retaliated, smearing her reputation, excluding her from meetings and events, and publicly humiliating her. Park's termination came just before Christmas 2023, effectively removing the highest-ranking woman and Asian-American employee from the department. Park's attorney, Shannon H.P. Ward, stated that Crowley's mismanagement and refusal to take responsibility are at the heart of the LAFD's current problems. Ward emphasized that Crowley's focus has shifted from public safety to surrounding herself with sycophants while retaliating against those who dissent. Park's attorney, Martin Aarons, further described Crowley's leadership style as one of creating a hostile environment where anyone who didn't conform was ostracized. Aarons highlighted that Park had been a dedicated employee since joining the fire department in 2013 and intended to remain there for her entire career. This lawsuit adds to the growing list of controversies surrounding the LAFD, particularly as California faces its most expensive fires in history
LAFD Lawsuit Retaliation Misconduct Jenny Park Kristin Crowley Orin Saunders Nepotism Bullying
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