LAFD Faces Criticism Over DEI Priorities During Record-Breaking Wildfires

Amidst devastating fires in Los Angeles, remarks by a senior LAFD official and budget cuts have drawn scrutiny over the department's preparedness and diversity efforts.

• The Palisades Fire, the most destructive in California history, has killed 16 people, burned over 38,000 acres, and damaged at least 10,000 structures.
• LAFD Deputy Chief Kristine Larson faced backlash for a viral clip defending diversity hiring practices, where she stated that victims needing rescue 'got themselves in the wrong place.'
• Critics argue that LAFD's focus on DEI initiatives, including a $307,000 salary for Larson, has detracted from operational readiness during the ongoing wildfire crisis.
• Budget cuts of $17.4 million in 2025, including reductions in overtime staffing and equipment maintenance, have further strained the department’s capacity to respond effectively.
• LAFD leadership, including Chief Kristin Crowley, has defended DEI efforts as essential for community trust but acknowledged that systemic underfunding has hampered firefighting capabilities.

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